Sounds like we should be making dinner reservations for around 6 pm, and then playing it by ear. Thanks!

Here's a suggestion for first timers who are attending the late night shanty shouts at the Festival. If you plan to lead a song, get there early with a group of friends and find yourself a corner or at least a wall to bounce off. Do not bother to bring an instrument, other than something to help you deliver the song in a key you can sing it in. There is a tendency under stress to pitch a song in too high a key and then self-destruct. Not a pretty sight! If your friends can support you in the chorus that will be a big help. If you know no one, use whatever social skills you have to attach yourself to a group.

I'm easy to identify. I'm about 60, bearded, usually wear a stripped shirt and a denim Greek sailor's hat. Of course there are several hundred other shantymen wantabees who fit that description...

Cheerily,
Charley Noble