Barry Seward

Remembrance songfest

November always brings songs about World Wars 1 and 2. Other wars are remembered, of course, but WW1 and 2 are particularly commemorated. Actually, the war-related songfest starts in October each year, or sometimes even September, and continues throughout November. There is certainly no shortage of material, old and new, some of it superb and much appreciated around the folk clubs.

If you should notice a folk singer sporting a knitted poppy, chances are it was knitted by Kate Seward, who raises money for the Royal British Legion every year by selling knitted poppies at folk clubs on the Island. If you see someone knitting at a folk night, chances are, it’s Kate. Kate and her husband Barry wrote a very funny song entitled ‘ Just let me finish me row’! No prizes for guessing what the song is about.

First Friday Figgy Gigs

West Wight has been lacking a regular folk night for some years, so it is good to see a new opportunity arising. The intriguingly-named Naked Figleaf Collective have announced a series of events on the first Friday of each month. These are likely to be a mix of music, not necessarily folk, and poetry. Two folk acts, Steve Love and Sheshells, have been chosen for the first ‘Gig’ on 4th November at CHOYD, Yarmouth. Doors open at 7pm, entry by donation.

Drywood Folk Duo

Coming up in November

There are several interesting visiting folk acts this month. Ventnor Arts Club welcomes Lizzy Hardingham on Friday 4th. Quay Folk Club have booked The Drywood Folk Duo from Northhampton after they were so well- received at the Yarmouth festival this year. Quay Arts Centre has two exciting acts – Granny’s Attic on Thursday 10th and Baskery on Friday 18th. Shalfleet Shanty Singers and The Watch are performing at another Andy Jackson Concert on Saturday 19th, 7pm at Shalfleet Village Hall. Finally, if you love dancing, don’t miss the annual Playford Ball, an afternoon event this year, on Saturday 5th. Details and links are on the Events page, as usual.

Lizzy Hardingham