Hythe Spirit...

St. Leonard's-at-the-Hythe in the December mist



The door to St Leonard's


 

When I first came to Colchester the port was still working (just about), and there are still reminders that this was a thriving area of Colchester hundreds of years ago. The church of St. Leonards on Hythe hill is now cared for by the Churches Conservation Trust, who open it occasionally.  I've never been inside, so can't miss the opportunity for some Christmas Carols next Wednesday (21st December), at 7.30 pm. Just think how many people in how many circumstances have been here in the last 700 years! And that's what I tend to think about at Christmas, a human story of family and survival. In Colchester 1648 it was all about survival - the church door still bears the marks. And our streets still bear the names - Lucas, Fairfax, Honywood, -all from the Civil War.

Song - Christmas number 1 from 1965 -We Can Work it Out - the Beatles. The first double-A side single, with 'Day Tripper' .  Oh yes, hours of happy research go into  this you know! And for anyone that thinks our modern pop stars know how to act up for the cameras - there's nothing new!

Wednesday 7.30 pm.

Keep Christmas shopping.....

Colchester Castle gift shop at Christmas - Shop local!

Yes, that's right, Xmas shopping in the largest Norman Keep in Europe...Colchester! Colchester  Castle is just the central tower, or Keep,  of a massive castle built just after the Norman invasion of England. Built on the site of a massive temple built by previous invaders of England, but that was before Christmas was invented, so we don't talk about that at this time of year.

Roman Jewellery from the amazing Fenwick Hoard on display in Colchester Castle - with thanks to the Colchester and Ipswich Museums service

But if you want to see the treasures in the Castle for free, then this Wednesday (14th December) the Castle is open for free for Christmas shopping and entertainment, from 3 pm. I have it on good authority that the wonderful Colchester Chamber Choir will be singing from 7.30... no doubt something eclectic from the Roderick Earle songbook! See you there!

Song....We may be treated to music by Samuel Scheidt...who? you may say, I certainly did. So listen to this..strangely familiar!

The advent of Advent....

Christmas comes but once a year, but for about 3 months if you go by most of our  retailers. I believe that the Christmas season should begin with the beginning of Advent, i.e. the forth Sunday before Christmas day. And there are many event organisers who wait until the proper season. Two events catch my eye this Sunday, the first of Advent. The Long Melford Olde Christmas is a street fair held in the long street of the village, with a lantern procession at 4 pm. Colchester's finest clog-dancing team, Annie's Fantasies, will be lighting up the event with their energetic dancing and seasonal costumes. Why not come along?

Annie's Fantasies dance in Wivenhoe before Christmas last year

Or for something  stylish, what about the Christmas Fayre at the World-famous Beth Chatto Gardens this Saturday and Sunday (26th and 27th November). I'll let them off starting a day early - it is so popular they need two days! I'm told there will be 35 stalls this year, and of course the Gardens themselves will be open and are looking lovely. For anyone that hasn't been, just east of Colchester on the Clacton road at Elmstead Market. It's very easy to get to - the Colchester to Clacton bus (number 76) stops nearby.

The famous Gravel Garden doesn't have so many flowers at this time  of year, but still looks great

Song - some beautiful Choral music from a choir I listened to last Christmas in Alsace - Voix de Stras' - there's always local choirs singing in lovely churches at this time of year - make time to listen to one of them! What about the Colchester Choral Society at our Moot Hall, Sunday 11th December?

Singing Away.....

Roderick Earle leads the Choir in rehearsal at the Beth Chatto Gardens earlier this year

Colchester Chamber Choir have developed a tradition of visiting Bury St. Edmunds each year to sing a concert in the Cathedral there. It's a marvellous occasion and the music will be brilliant - so if you fancy a trip out from Colchester this Sunday then why not?. Tickets for anyone under 30 are only £10 - book here!

Music - Durufle - Requiem - to be sung this Sunday!

The Boyz ae back in town...

There are occasions when truly world-class events come to Colchester, the sort of thing you'd travel to London usually to see. And the BalletBoyz at the Mercury is one of those. The all-male dance company founded by Royal Ballet dancers Trevor Nunn and William Trevitt perform to sell-out crowds at Sadler's Wells, but there's still tickets for tonight from £16 - why not click here to book! The dance 'Fiction' by the renowned choreographer Javier de Frutos is fantastic and received a standing ovation last night. It is joyful and humorous. 4- and 5-star reviews (e.g. the Guardian) You don't get many opportunities like this in Colchester.

Song.....Donna Summer - Last Dance.....Go to the show and you'll see why!

Yakety-Yak..(do talk back)

Isaac James warms up in his spectacular dance studio at Firstsite

Firstsite is packed with all sorts of activities and arts this next 10 days (until 30th October). A gallery take-over by YAK (Young Art Kommunity) sees dance, juggling, gaming. painting and loads more.

2000 years at Firstsite - from mosaics to hula-hoops

So checkout the program here, or just pop in for details. Also on Facebook 'FirstsiteYAK'
Song - Yakety-Yak, the Coasters.

Oh, it just came to my notice that Essex County Council are one of the supporters of this. Strange since this is what they think of Colchester's artistic heritage!

Colchester Public(?) Library 18th October 2016
I think everyone should go in to the foyer and punch the 'red face' on their 'how are we doing?' screen. And type in an explanation 'put back the Crucifixion of Mankind' . I just did and it made me feel better. Might go and do it again tomorrow.

Lost Souls.....

Crucifixion of Mankind by Connor Barrett



I've been away for a bit but what do I find on my return?....Just when you think Colchester is getting almost trendy, good new restaurants, great recent theatre, Martin Parr, someone has to remind us we are still in reactionary Essex. Connor Barrett's fine artwork, resolutely of it's time but also speaking now of man's inhumanity to man (Aleppo anyone?), has been removed from the perfect space for it, proudly in Colchester Library. Apparently in an era when it's ok to bombard children with sexualised images, and feeding them junk food is fine, showing a scene from the Bible and explaining how the World could be a better place is not. As an Atheist I deplore the desecration of our country's Christian heritage!
If anyone is organising protests, let me know - I'll be there. Write to your MP, your councillor (these decisions are taken in your name). I am and I expect them to listen.
And, by the way, No! this cannot be 'hidden' somewhere else - It's a public artwork for a public space, and is part of Colchester History.
This is the first negative blog I have written....sorry! - but at least Colchester made it  to the 'Scottish Mail on Sunday'!
Song - The Clash - Lost in the Supermarket - because when we attach more importance to the price of Marmite than to censorship and war - then we're all lost.

A Rose by Any Other Name....

A glimpse of the action from rehearsals

When is the Mercury theatre not the Mercury? Maybe when their splendid Youth Company fill St. Martin's church with Romeo and Juliet. It's an abridged version, only 75 minutes, and starting at 6.30 pm gives you plenty of time afterwards to drink to the ' star-cross'd lovers'. And you'll be right in the action as it whirls around the atmospheric old church in the twilight, as it is a promenade performance (you stand and move with the action). You can book now by clicking here - only £11.50. Performances from tomorrow (19th Aug.) until Sunday 28th....See you there, good night, parting is such sweet sorrow!


Song - Love is a Losing Game - Amy Winehouse, wonderful live at The Mercury Awards. Too sad....

I promise I didn't

Dancing in the street...

Annie's Fantasies dance at Firstsite during Big Sunday

I can exclusively reveal that Colchester's one and only Clog-Morris dance side, Annie's Fantasies, will end their summer season with a charity gig in aid of the Colchester Night Shelter tomorrow (Sunday)! Starting at Firstsite at Midday, they will move on to Castle Park in he afternoon. Please come and support us .... and we'd love you to join us too. Morris dancing is a fun and friendly way to keep fit and share music and dance with others. No experience needed - talk to us or remember our next open day on October 9th, at Roman Circus House. See you there!
Song - Consolers of the Lonely - the Raconteurs - Awesome rock n' roll from Jack White and the Band.

Cooking on Gas....

Broad bean and Potato curry bubbling away in the Parker kitchen

As usual there's great stuff on for children at the Arts Centre this August. Various workshops start from 16th (next Tuesday), but the one I'm booking for  is Bollywood Bhangra, curry and dance moves with Indi Sandhu. It says it's suitable for all ages, so Mrs. Blogger may be there!

Song - something for afters... Chocolate, Limejuice, Ice cream! - Salman Khan & Madhuri Dixit

Book early to Avoid Disappointment...

Artistic Director and top Cellist Orlando Jopling

I have been fortunate to follow the Roman River Festival for many years, and have seen and heard remarkable performances,. Ten years ago Artistic Director Orlando Jopling bemoaned the fact that any 'new' or 'different' concerts (e.g. new composers or non-classical collaborations) were difficult to sell. Well, Colchester has caught up now! and how - with last year's concerts marking a watershed for me. I was lucky enough to witness the excitement of the audience listening for the first time to a piece by young composer Gwilym Symcock performed by the brilliant Sacconi Quartet at Firstsite last year. The Sacconi are back this year, and amongst their gigs is a performance of Elvis Costello's 'The Juliet Letters' sung by Jon Boden, ex. Bellowhead.
But....now the word is out. Some concerts for this autumn's Festival are already sold out, and others nearly so. So, if you want to witness exciting World-class music-making in our town  this Autumn - book now to avoid disappointment!

Song - Elvis Costello and the Brodsky quartet - The Birds will still be Singing. Phew -- I'd forgotten how good this is!

Composer Gwilym Symcock in conversation with Anthony Roberts at last year's festival

A Hat Full of Sky....

With thanks to my ex-boss, Beth Chatto

There's always a lot of open-air theatre to enjoy at this time of year, but one performance really worth catching is at the magical Beth Chatto Gardens this Sunday, when the local theatre company Chameleon's Web put on an adaptation of Sir Terry Pratchett's ' Carpe Jugulum'.  I feel Terry has always been underestimated, writing not just funny but deeply satirical books, but always entertaining. This should be a magical evening, great for families but also a rare chance to see Beth Chatto's magnificent gardens 'out of hours'. Click here to book. 

Music.... Manic Magic Majestic.... the Band of Holy Joy....wish I'd been at that gig (with thanks to my brother Nick, who possibly was).

Leather on Willow...

The wonderful 'mobile' scoreboard in use today!

Want to do something special, outdoor this weekend, and support your local sports team? - Head to lower Castle Park (easiest to walk or cycle) where Essex play a County Championship cricket match. It lasts from today (Thursday) until Sunday - unless someone wins first. Tickets just £15 on the gate, but if the weather's good it gets busy. Or you can save £2 by buying on-line beforehand at the Essex Cricket Website (just click here). There is no better day out in Colchester, and we are very lucky that Essex continue to leave their base in Chelmsford to play in Colchester each year. So use it or lose it - see you there Friday!
Song - David Essex (geddit!) - Oh What a Circus from Evita. Memories! -(no, that was a different musical...)

The start of a cricket match - always a nerve-tingling moment!

Bangers and Mash (tun)...

a fine selection in Guntons, Crouch street

Sausages and beer - a perfect combination, and all in one place this Saturday at the Primrose Pork open day at their farm shop at Great Bromley. Local microbrewery 'Sticklegs' (named after a dog I believe) has relocated to the farm and will I believe be giving tours of the brewery. There will of course be many tasty treats to eat as well, and a farm and crafts market. Oh, and tractors too if that's your thing! 10 am till 5 pm, for details of location click here.

Don't drink and drive (it's really a bad idea because you might spill some). I'm catching the number 105 bus from Colchester Town station at 12.21. You can find other services from all over Essex at Traveline. See you there!

Song... A cover of the Beatles 'Piggies' from the White Album. Some fabulous photos of George Harrison.

tasty treats from Primrose Pork at Wivenhoe Farmers' market

What did the Romans ever do for us?...

Jess Jephcott and trainee Roman soldier

It's often said in Colchester that we don't make enough of our Roman heritage. Well, partly that's down to all of us, and there are some hard-working people at Roman Circus House that are certainly doing their bit this summer. There are activities, tours, games, and of course tea and cake, almost every week. Check out more details at www.romancircus.co.uk
the full list is:
 Saturday 23rd July: Blue Badge guided tour of the circus site and centre, at 12.30 and 1.30, by Colchester Tourist Guides Jonathan or Dinah. Each tour lasts 45 minutes. £2.50 per head. Children under 11 FREE.
* Saturday 23rd July: ‘Making cutlery 300 years ago’ – illustrated talk with finds display by archaeologist and bone specialist Pip Parmenter about an industry which once flourished in Thaxted in Essex. 45 minutes starting at 2.00pm. FREE.
* Saturday 30th July: ARCHAEOLOGY ROAD SHOW. Dug up anything archaeological you want an opinion on? Do you have any mysterious finds under your bed or in the attic? Bring them along and try them on our panel of experts! 11.00am-4.00pm. FREE.
* Saturday 30th July: ‘Walking the Martello Towers of Suffolk’, illustrated talk by Trust archaeologist Howard Brooks. 45 minutes starting at 11.30am. FREE.
* Saturday 30th July: guided tour of the circus site and centre by Trust guides, at 12.30 and 1.30. FREE.
* Saturday 6th August: Blue Badge guided tour of the circus site and centre at 12.30 and 1.30, by Colchester Tourist Guides Jonathan or Dinah. 45 minutes. £2.50 per person, children under 11 FREE.
* Saturday 13th August: ‘Things they buried with the dead’ – hands-on finds session with Trust archaeologist Emma Holloway. 45 minutes starting at 11.30am. FREE.
* Saturday 13th August: guided tour of the circus site and centre by Trust guides, at 12.30 and 1.30. FREE.
* Saturday 20th August 20th: Blue Badge guided tour of the circus site and centre at 12.30 and 1.30, by Colchester Tourist Guides Jonathan or Dinah. 45 minutes. £2.50 per person, children under 11 FREE.
* Saturday 20th August: Kids’ dig – come and try your hand at excavating with a real archaeologist, and keep what you find! Sessions might be limited if popular. 11.00am-3.00pm. FREE.
* Saturday 20th August: Aquila game session with Alex (for players aged 10 and over). 11.00am-2.00pm. FREE.
* Saturday 20th August: the Two Daves concert. Triumphant return of the Two Daves to the stage at the circus centre with favourite songs from the Sixties. Quality! Starts 2.00pm. FREE.
* Saturday August 27th: Blue Badge guided tour of the circus site and centre at 12.30 and 1.30, by Colchester Tourist Guides Jonathan or Dinah. 45 minutes. £2.50 per person, children under 11 FREE.
* Saturday August 27th: ‘1971-1985: giant sites – big finds’ – illustrated review by Trust director Philip Crummy of his work in Colchester from 1971. 45 minutes starting at 11.30am. FREE.
* Saturday 3rd September: ‘1986-2016 – the Roman circus and much more’ – illustrated review by Trust director Philip Crummy of his work in Colchester from 1971. 45 minutes starting at 11.30am. FREE.
* Saturday 3rd September: guided tour of the circus site and centre by Trust guides, at 12.30 and 1.30. FREE.
* Saturday 10th September: HERITAGE OPEN DAY – part of the National Heritage Open Days 2016. 10:30 am to 4:30 pm. Visit the former NAAFI of the Artillery (Le Cateau) Barracks of Colchester’s old garrison, built in 1937, which now houses the Roman circus centre. Small display about the NAAFI including some vintage NAAFI artefacts. Try 1940s NAAFI-recipe cakes in our tea room. Vintage military vehicles in the garden. FREE.
* Saturday 10th September: tour from Castle Park to the Roman circus – guided tour with Trust director Philip Crummy. 10.30am-12.30 pm. Meet outside the castle and see the remains of the Roman theatre, Duncan’s Gate, the Roman temple arcade and the Roman circus. FREE.
* Saturday 10th September: guided tour of the circus site and centre by Trust guides, at 12.30 and 1.30. FREE.
* Saturday 17th September: ‘More to pots than meets the eye’ – hands-on session with Trust archaeologist and pottery specialist Steve Benfield. 11.30am-12.30pm. FREE.
* Saturday 17th September: Aquila game session with Alex (for players aged 10 and over). 11.00am-2.00pm. FREE.
* Saturday 17th September: guided tour of the Roman circus site and centre by Trust guides, at 12.30 and 1.30. FREE.
* Saturday 24th September: ‘The Fenwick gold and silver treasure’ – illustrated talk by Trust archaeologist Adam Wightman who found the treasure. 45 minutes starting at 11.30am. FREE but best to pre-book to guarantee a seat (01206 501785 orinfo@romancircus.co.uk ).
* Saturday 24th September: ‘Digging deep for sound’ – an interactive family experience led by COMA East Firewire, a band that uses music to explore the present and the past. The band brings life to things long buried under our feet in Colchester through instruments and voices. 2.00pm to 3.30pm. FREE.
* Saturday 24th September: guided tour of the Roman circus site and centre by Trust guides, at 12.30 and 1.30. FREE.

The game of Aquila, adapted from a game found at Stanway

Phew! Hopefully there's something there for everyone in Colchester - Your move!

Music - well, actually the brilliant scene from Monty Python's Life of Brian!

Lend a hand, lend an ear....

Even older folk can hold hands.....

'Performance Art' - what do we mean by this? for me it is above all about a personal interaction, not passively looking at a picture or watching a film, but connecting with other people. And it's not really about big ideas, unless you count reconnecting with the beautiful simplicity of life a 'Big Idea'.

A man I trust totally to put something interesting in front of the good folk of Colchester has got the most beautiful, simple performance lined-up for this weekend, created by Rosanna Cade. So how about being in touch physically, and having a chat? All he now needs is some people who want to try it. There is nothing to lose.... Pay what you can or want to, and you can even ring Anthony Roberts (for it is he of course) to find out more on 07814 695598. Find out more or book by clicking here for Saturday or here for Sunday. And if you can't be there (sadly that's the case for me) then please share this.
Song - well among many strong contenders it has to be the Beatles - I want to hold your Hand.
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Mersea Beat....

Elena Urioste will again star

The Roman River Festival brings a weekend of Music to venues in the Colchester area next weekend - Top-class classical music in relaxed and informal settings. It features a very welcome return for top violinist Elena Urioste. Two events on Mersea Island - including a children's event. A good excuse to leave the mainland.

Music - Elena plays Romance by Amy Beach. Classical music doesn't have to be difficult!

Enjoy a nice walk and some Mersea seafood

Parr for the course...

Martin Parr photographed at Firstsite!

Martin gets in a bit of work at the opening

Song - Blondie - Picture This - nothing too subtle! A fabulous live video, and despite Debbie Harry's ,erm, presence, it's great to hear what a tight live band they were.

Selfies with Martin!

And you can take part too by submitting your own photos. How about this one?

Martin Parr may not be as familiar a name as Andy Warhol, but I think he is one of the greatest artists working in this Country. His wry photographs show the absurdity of being human (and it doesn't get much more absurd than the last week). I beseech you to catch the show at Firstsite - it's great fun.

With thanks and apologies to Sally and Lynn of Annie's Fantasies

Completely Fayre...

The beautiful Essex countryside near Colchester

At this time of year there are so many village Fayres, School fetes and other summer social events. They are not always advertised in the papers, or on social media, so look out for good old-fashioned posters, banners and billboards. While they are unlikely to keep you entertained for a whole day, why not pop in to one local to you. They are part of our communities here in  Colchester, raising a little money and getting people together. Here's a couple - it would be worth  booking for the Wrabness one.

Song - She moved through the Fair - a lovely version by Sinead O'Connor.

A Love Match...

Johanna Konta faces the cameras at the Nottingham Open

Heather Watson in Castle Park last year

With Wimbledon well underway it's interesting to see the pressures our top players are under - would you like to be constantly in the media spotlight? And yes, I know they are well-paid, but apart from the top few, not as well-paid as you'd think.
Anyway, don't forget you can drop by Castle Park to watch the action on the Big Screen. And there's a great selection of open-air films for all the family this weekend - you can see the schedule and get tickets here. See you there!
Song - Parklife - Blur. Did they nick the bike from Morrissey?

Football Crazy (not)...

With thanks to Beth Chatto and all her staff

So there's wall-to-wall footy on the telly and in the pubs. I'm afraid I fell out of love with the 'beautiful game' when players started falling over when opponents breathed near them, in the hope of winning a penalty. So if you're looking for a peaceful retreat why not spend an hour or two at the Beth Chatto gardens, just east of Colchester. Created by a wonderful plantswoman over 50 years ago, it also has a super nursery and nice tea-room. I know I'm biased, as I worked there for 15 years, but when I was there on Tuesday Evening it was just magical. This was helped by the beautiful sound of the Colchester Chamber Choir, rehearsing for their concert there this Sunday (19th June).

With thanks to Roderick Earle and the Choir

Doors open 6 pm, bring a picnic, music from 7 pm. Exclusive access to the Gardens until 9 pm.
The weather looks fine and tickets are available on-line here or on the door. This truly is a unique evening not to be missed! See you there!

Some music that the Choir will be singing -
The Nightingale by Felix Mendelssohn  a good effort by a school choir!

Beth's gardens look beautiful even with raindrops!

Come Sunday....

Let's Dance!



Yours truly at last year's event - yummy veggie pizza!

Yes it's time for Big Sunday with loads going on around Firstsite, the Waiting Room and The Minories, as well as the Queen Street Brewhouse and the Three Wise Monkeys. Music, Dance and much else, including Annie's Fantasies clog-dancing.  Food and Beer available in many locations, including the Waiting Room Beer Festival - see you there!

Song - Jennifer Holliday - her version of the Duke Ellington classic Come Sunday

 
 

Waiting for the action to start...



No, don't hang about - get down there this weekend!

At this time of year every comic in the land it seems is trying-out new material in preparation for the Edinburgh fringe (and if you haven't been, it is manic, with shows round the clock, so no wonder they need so many comedians). The wonderful Waiting Room has lots on this weekend, but Saturday evening brings comedy performers getting ready for Edinburgh - so you get in absolutely free! - too good to miss I say.

Song - The Smiths ..Stop Me if you think You've heard this one before.

In an English Country Garden...

The tranquil gardens at Elmstead Market

The world-famous Gravel Garden, never watered

I popped in to my old place of work (not a bad place to work!) at Beth Chatto Gardens a couple of days ago. It was as beautiful as ever so if you've never been.. June is a great month.
My old boss (Beth Chatto) celebrates her birthday this month - just three years older than the Queen! Happy Birthday Beth. They have great events there too - Colchester Chamber Choir sing on June 19th - Book Tickets here.
See you There!
Music - in an English Country Garden - a version by Nana Mouskouri! Rather nice.

Farming today...

Watch out for the sign at Fiveways - Guess what's for sale!

I know I've mentioned the tasty produce of the Fiveways Fruit farm before, but when I was in there this morning getting my weekly supply of asparagus I couldn't help noticing they have an open day this Sunday as part of Open Farm Sunday. So why not go along and see how the Asparagus, Strawberries, and all the other tasty fruits are grown? Sorry, I can't be there, but I will be eating Colchester Asparagus!
Song..Strawberry Fields Forever.....The Beatles