John’s new show comes to Winster

It can be seen at the Burton Institute, Winster, on Friday, November 14, from 8pm.

Following the huge success of his solo shows Carolling & Crumpets, and The Victorian Farmer’s Year In Song – based on his appearances on the popular TV programme Victorian Farm – he now presents a

full kitbag of songs from the two world wars in celebration of the centenary of World War I and the 70th anniversary of D-Day.

As you’d expect, there’ll be a fair smattering of the popular hits of the day - designed to keep the spirits high, to raise a smile, share a chorus, and provide a moment’s respite from the horrors on every side.

And John will also give an airing to some of the songs sung on the front line by the service personnel themselves – tunes on everyone’s lips, conjured up far from home by an army of ordinary folk doing their best to be good soldiers.

You will hear how experiences on the front were dealt with and described with great directness, wit, robust humour, and, occasionally, very fruity language.

This stirring new programme is presented in costume with John’s usual panache and energy.

Producing an amazing amount of volume for one person, John fills the room with music, with a voice of great dynamic range supported by his sparkling squeezebox playing.

This is a heart-warming show, with occasional poignant moments in amongst the jolly choruses, celebrating the comradeship and spirit that allowed those previous generations to keep smiling through.

The bar opens at the venue at 7.15pm. Tickets are £8 (£6 for children still at school) from Winster Post Office or on 01629 650090.