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Mapperley's Commemoration Concert 14 June 2014

Mike Moss (MC) with daughter Rachel and granddaughter Issy


- Reviews -


The recent World War One memorial event held at Mapperley’s Holy Trinity Church on Saturday 14th June was a fitting tribute to the community spirit that served as the glue holding thousands of similar communities across the country together during the conflict.  During its three-hour running time, an increased sense of audience participation suggested the importance of the event to the close-knit community, during which the three soldiers from Mapperley that were killed during the conflict were remembered. 

A capacity crowd filled the Church, ensuring standing room only at the event’s commencement, where MC Mike Moss immediately put an expectant crowd at ease.  Following a brief introduction, he introduced the opening act, Mu Stubbs.  In an emotive talk, Mu talked of Mapperley Village as it was in 1914, sharing information about the soldiers that left for the war, and those that didn’t come back.  She added a context to the names inscribed on the gate to the Church, giving details of their lives, including, tragically, when and where they were brought to a premature end.

The ‘Mapperley Minstrels’, the choir for the day, provided some contrasting joviality next.  The quintet, made up of Lesley, Dot, Stella, Glenis and Elizabeth, performed several songs to an enthusiastic and active crowd, who joined them with Union Jack flags. 

Following the musical break, local actor/storyteller Patrick Ashcroft gave the first of his two performances for the afternoon in character as Patsy Jackson.  His entertaining and engaging performance was followed by ‘Warizit’, a local two-piece musical act who performed a host of recognisable songs from the trenches. 

Further performances from Glenis Hayes, reading Vera Brittain’s poem ‘To My Brother’, as well as a series of monologues concluded the opening round of entertainment, which was followed by the service of cakes, sandwiches and hot drinks to the beautifully decorated tables, draped in Union Jack table cloths and stunning poppies. 

Following this interval, the all-female musical trio ‘The Antique Rogues’ made an appearance, and were the highlight of the event.  Their charismatic and hilarious performance, in which they sang a host of songs wonderfully dressed in RAF uniform, had an engrossed crowd singing along in unison. 

The incredible effort that went in to organising the event was evident wherever you looked in the church: tables were beautifully decorated, WWI displays decorated the walls, organisers themselves were dressed in period costume, and all who attended visibly enjoyed themselves. 

The event was rounded off with a fitting display of patriotism, as everyone in attendance rose to their feet and, with Union Jack in hand, sang “There’ll Always Be An England” and “Land of Hope and Glory”.  For such a small village to produce such an imaginative and thought-provoking blend of entertainment and poignancy is a testament to their determination and hard work, and served as a fitting tribute to remember the 100th Anniversary of the beginning of World War One.

Ashley Carter, writer for LeftLion (Nottingham’s Culture Magazine) and The Nottingham Post


Well what can we say apart from what must have been glaringly obvious!  Without doubt you and your team have excelled yourselves as this was a village effort enjoyed by everyone present and one to be remembered happily for a long time.  The variety of talent was amazing with the performers contributing just the right mix of poignancy and humour fitting for the occasion. Obviously much thought had been given to setting the scene, with the displays, the helper’s costumes, and the food and table decorations. Everything was organised with marked enthusiasm and congratulations and thanks are due to you all. It was a great pleasure to be involved.

Mu


I must congratulate everyone involved in the WW1 Commemoration Concert on Saturday the 14th June in Mapperley Church; the whole event was very nostalgic and extremely interesting with a variety of entertainment. I’m sure everyone who attended had a wonderful afternoon as I did. Well done to all of you.

Judith C


IIt was a truly amazing event -lots of people commented on the "community spirit" shown in the village, some even said it seemed a shame not to do it again ! 

IReally lovely that we raised so much for such a good cause. 

L



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