"Blitz" is a show is a multimedia retrospective in commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the London Blitz. We've had a lot of interest & excitement for "Blitz"- but we havent got a venue yet.
I applied for arts council funding but didn't get it; javascript:emoticon('
') I'm in good company though with that!I've decided to go for it anyway.
Can anyone think of a good local venue? Max audience 100-150. javascript:emoticon(':idea:')
Here's the show:
Hit songs from the Blitz era and eyewitness accounts drown out the sirens above until the all clear... Blitz is a compelling live performance set against a backdrop of the sights and sounds of the Blitz with real archive film footage and authentic radio extracts from the Imperial War Museum.
Accompanied only on the accordion, the show presents a moving and inspiring journey from September 1940- May 1941. (Running time- 1 hour 40)
Sydenham Community Radio are going to be involved and we're looking for residents' memories and experiences of the London Blitz, which will be used, with the individuals' consent, within the framework of the show, alongside audio extracts and live footage from the Imperial War Museum.
Blitz is being developed in consultation with Kate Rea, producer for the BBC History department and with the help of Freelance Film Editor Tom Hemmings. Alex Carter will perform with Serge Pachnine on accordion; the accordion was chosen for its historical relevance and its portability, as people really did take their accordions down into the shelters and play music while they waited for the all clear during the blitz.
"... my mum decided that next time a night raid came we would get to the Manor House underground station, as it was safer there. We arrived there carrying old blankets and sheets and made our way down to the station platform. I will always remember those people already down there. just lying around on makeshift beds. One man was playing a piano accordion and many of them were singing along with him. People of all ages, and all backgrounds all joined in together.”-Jim Hepting, from BBC WWII People’s War, a personal account
So please let me know any (helpful) thoughts- thank you!
Alex Carter