SS Speaketh the truth....!
I doubt if I will see a more emotional gig this year. Bandoggs (This timewith Damien Barber and Johnny Adams taking on the late Tony Roses duties) Martin Carthy at his imperious best, with a truly brilliant Sir Patrick Spens. (has he moved into the South Bank...that's 2 weeks in a row!), So many greats, but, the big surprise was Nic himself. His voice has come on leaps and bounds, Much quieter than it used to be, but just as achingly expressive as ever. I've been lucky over the years to have been involved with various NJ projects, but, there was an almost surreal feeling when Joe (Nics son) joined in to accompany his dad. Shut your eyes and it could have Nic. and the Duetting they did was almost instinctive. Belinda and Jackie Oates, again pulled out all the stops. (Why does Annachie Gordon do that to me?) And, Belinda accompanying Nic on "Thanksgiving" ......Magic.
Sorry If I haven't named everyone, but, there wasn't a bad performance all night. Absolutely splendid, Well done to Ruth Archer and the South Bank people for putting it on. Nic says that it won't happen again, .......I wouldn't bet on that!