THE ‘ORIGINALS’ ‘SPLITYARD SOCIAL’ SONGFEST IN FERNVALE

 

Suzanne, Nola, Patrina, Marina, Ruth, Susan, Maree, Kathleen 

Apart from Alexis, choir members Ruth, Suzanne, Nola, Susie, Patrina, Marina, Kathleen and Maree may not have been the original ‘Originals’ but with their combined decades of singing with the wonderful Esk Community Choir, they could certainly be regarded as ‘honorary originals’. On the evening of July 18^th, these nine ‘ladies in red’ delighted a peckish party of patrons at Duncan’s and Trish ‘s Splityard Social in Fernvale, with some lively musical entertainment.

Trish and Duncan - Splityard Social at Fernvale

As guests were welcomed by a brisk bevy of waiters fortifying patrons with all manner of beverages, the ‘Originals’ found their places ‘centre stage’. Following a rousing welcome by Duncan, it was onto a songfest, along with stories and cherished memories retold by Alexis tracing the Choir’s remarkable journey from its humble beginnings in 1978 with six ladies and a piano, to the now thirty-six strong formidable choral ensemble it is today.

From those early years came countless anecdotes and cherished memories, framed by a repertoire as varied as the many venues in which this developing choir performed. Over the course of the evening, songs and stories from the choir's concert performances, musical productions and overseas tours filled the space with music. laughter and nostalgia. While the performances paused, guests feasted on Duncan's legendary lamb roasts as eagerly anticipated as the entertainment itself.

While Dean Martin may rest easy, secure in the knowledge that Mambo Italiano still holds pride of place on countless playlists, it was just one of many showstoppers that had the appreciative Splityard audience thoroughly captivated. Alongside favourites such as I Am Australian, which never fails to inspire enthusiastic audience participation, the ‘Originals’ delivered a performance that had the crowd calling ‘encore!’.

After a well-deserved standing ovation, (well ok, one enthusiastic standing ovation!), the Originals took to their seats alongside guests to enjoy a delicious dessert and share in the warm afterglow of the evening. With the melodies still ringing in their ears, guests departed into the night, taking with them the memories of a truly memorable performance.

To Alexis, we ‘Originals’ give our heartfelt thanks for your inspiring vision, your guidance and belief in us and the success of this event.   We are also deeply grateful to Duncan, Trish and their very organized Splityard Social staff for their warm welcome and generous hospitality which made everyone feel so at home.

By: Sue Walker