So much quality and variety in the King’s Lynn area
In his weekly That’s Entertainment column, Andy Tyler looks at what’s coming up in West Norfolk...
I’m constantly reminded of the quality and variety of entertainment and events taking place locally throughout the year, and I briefly mention two examples I’ve recently enjoyed.
Westacre Theatre’s production of Moliere’s ‘School For Wives’, which has just finished its run, was outstanding. A comparatively long play, the cast gave captivating performances, full of energy and wit, delivering the text coherently, which was in a fluent and effective translation, with plenty of clever rhyming. Thanks to director Matt Grist and the Westacre cast, and team, for such an entertaining theatrical experience!
Quality is always associated with Lynn Festival events, and I was delighted that The Mithras Trio, having broadcast this week on BBC Radio 3 in music by Korngold, also performed in recitals at The Festival recently. The trio are BBC Radio 3 New Generation Artists - only the best for Lynn!
It was pleasant to relax and enjoy a social event organised by The Lynn/Emmerich Twinning Club, which enabled members to socialise over a tasty barbecue.
Luckily the weather was kind. To readers who may be interested in making contact with German residents in Lynn’s twin town of Emmerich-am-Rhein, or exchanging visits with them, do visit the club’s website for details, and how to join.
We don’t have to go far, when looking for historic sites and buildings to visit, as there are many in West Norfolk and surrounding area to view. In one, Oxburgh Hall, a concert will be given to mark the 400th anniversary of the composer William Byrd’s death. An ensemble of young professional singers and instrumentalists, Eboracum Baroque will perform. Doors open at Oxburgh , 5.30pm tonight with the performance starting at 6.30pm. Book online at: www.national-trust.org.uk/visit/norfolk/oxburgh-estate
For obvious reasons many Ukrainians, staying in West Norfolk cannot celebrate their Independence Day celebrations on August 24 in their own country. It’s great, therefore, to hear celebrations WILL take place in Lynn between 4.30pm and 7pm on The Tuesday Market Place. Keep a space in your diary for August 24, and enjoy all sorts of fun entertainment, including live music. West Norfolk Council and Stories of Lynn are supporting the event.
My book choice this week features a biography of George Orwell’s wife Eileen O’Shaughnessy, and is entitled: ‘Wifedom’, by Anna Funder. It concentrates on their often troubled marriage and personal relationship. The book explores aspects of Orwell’s life not previously touched upon by biographers, uncovering some surprises.
A frequent visitor to Lynn is another biographer, D.J. Taylor. His book, ‘Orwell: The Life’ is also well worth a read for those interested. D.J.Taylor has attended Lynn Literary Festival events, and once, Orwell’s adopted son, Richard also gave a talk here.
Back to music and film. Live cinema screenings for the Autumn from The Royal Opera House include Das Rheingold, L’Elisir D’Amore, and Don Quixote. All should be screened at cinemas locally.
For Leonard Bernstein fans, look out a film documentary coming soon entitled simply: ‘Maestro’. Should be available on Netflix.
If you’re in the Norwich area, I notice there’s gigs to enjoy on King’s Street for the over 14s. The next is Swans on Wednesday, August, 23, starting at 7.30pm. Visit The Adrian Flux Waterfront website for more details.
Lastly, keep an eye open for all the coming events at The Alive Leisure Corn Exchange and Princess Theatre, Hunstanton. There’s something for everyone, naturally.