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Sell Out Musical Evening!

Last night saw the church turned into a make-believe West End theatre to welcome two established and experienced singers, Jayne O’Mahony and John Langley, accompanied on the keyboard by Andrew Sackett. They had put together a light hearted presentation of songs from famous “Movies and Musicals” (the theme of the evening), that was well received by the sell-out crowd. It was an excellent evening and their musical talent was very impressive! It was the second time that the pair had given a concert in the church, in aid of the church restoration, organised by “The Friends of Longhope Church Committee” – the last time being last September. As Tina Coull (organiser) said after the evening, “It is nice to find something that is SO popular and is SO well supported to aid the church funds.” There was an interval, where a selection of wines, drinks and canapés were served as part of the admission fee, as well as a well supported raffle with plenty of donated prizes.

The lighting effects in the church were very atmospheric and supplied by Martin Lawrance. Jayne O’Mahony started her career at the very young age of nine years old, in the very first production of Les Miserables at The Barbican, 28 years ago. She trained at Redroofs Theatre School in Maidenhead alongside Oscar winner Kate Winslet. John Langley started singing and acting professionally in 1996 and appeared in many famous musicals eg Carousel, West Side Story and Phantom of the Opera to name but a few. Andrew Sackett moved to Tewkesbury in 1989 where he became musical director of the Choir of the Abbey School. After 11 years at Tewkesbury, he was appointed musical director for The Holland America Cruise Line. These days he is in great demand as a freelance musical director, pianist and organist.

This was a really enjoyable evening and hopefully they will make another return visit, very soon, ok guys? It was also nice to know that John had done some online research about Longhope on the internet before he came here, and of course, viewed THIS website!!

John and Jane singing together	Jane O'Mahony	John Langley