Sorry you didn't enjoy the Gather Shantyfreak, but as Jim quite rightly pointed out, it was a Gather not a singaround.

So often at festivals we all pass like ships in the night on the way to the next singaround, session, concert, bar or bed & often people don't get a chance to get to know each other. We've all got the Cat in common as well as a shared interest in singing, music, dancing or tradition, so we are already partway to being good friends. The Gathers are a place to meet, and if I can steal a Middle Bar expression (Tony WILL fine me), laugh, drink & sing! (and yes, daughter, it WAS fun *grin*) I think most people enjoyed themselves and I understand that some of the Guests will be registering as Catters too, so it can't have been that bad!

Personally I love the Gathers & always get a good feeling from having 'organised' them - though they tend to run themselves with the aid of the inflatable MadCat. Being able to raise a little cash for the MudCat (with the blessing of the Festival Organisers) is a Bonus and it also helps to bring home to Catters that we all owe something to Max to help keep the Cat running (see UK Friends of MudCat thread). I'm not able to give much in the way of cash, but if my 'organising skills' can help then I gladly offer them.

See you all again at the next one, keep on singing & making music!