As the nights draw in it’s time to enjoy some indoor entertainment, and at Creative Oundle we have a varied autumn programme of stand-up comedy and cinema nights to tempt you, but before revealing the details it’s worth pausing to reflect on what has been a wonderful summer of music and drama, enjoyed on long, warm afternoons and evenings; also the celebration in August of our own Oundle For Organists’ fortieth anniversary, with a distinguished line-up of performers and alumni.
To recap: The Ronnie Scott’s Story at the Stahl was a sell-out in early July, and the famed musicians didn’t disappoint with their easy, breezy blend of anecdotes and top-quality jazz. A hot evening in every sense!
Party at the Wharf has become something of a community fixture and again pulled in people of all ages to enjoy a picnic and dance the night away to the sounds of Bootleg Blondie and a variety of support bands. “Such a fun night” and “Wow, tribute band sounded as good as the real Blondie!” were just two of the comments received.
It was of course just the summer for outdoor theatre. In July the Handlebards theatrical troupe had us all rolling around with laughter as they performed their energetic version of Much Ado About Nothing in the lovely Common Room gardens, then in August Paperback Theatre kept children and their parents enthralled with their unique take on two classics: The Wind in the Willows and the Wizard of Oz.
Crazy capers with the Handlebards
Fortieth Anniversary celebration
Young musicians showcased their talents during Oundle for Organists week. This prestigious summer school has gained an international reputation for its support and tutoring of aspiring young musicians from across the country, who come to Oundle to learn from some of the best organists currently performing in the UK, and beyond.
During an evening at the School Chapel to celebrate OFO’s fortieth anniversary, the students, along with other audience members, learned about the remarkable career of organist James Parsons, who founded the OFO; afterwards everyone enjoyed a recital by Francesca Massey.
One of the students, Nelly Palmer, who also won Oundle Young Musician of the Year in 2024, gave a lunchtime recital at St Peter’s church on the piano and cello, and blew everyone away with her virtuosity and maturity.
The talented Nelly Palmer
Coming up later this month:
Stand-up comedy returns to the Queen Victoria Hall on Friday 26th September, kindly sponsored by The Lemon Tree Café, Oundle, and there’s a cracking line-up of four comedians who are currently making waves on the comedy circuit.
Meanwhile Oundle Cinema Club starts its season of espionage-themed films with The Spy Who Came in from the Cold on Thursday 11th, followed by Bridge of Spies on 2nd October.
And finally, we are delighted to say that we have a new Trustee joining us, Robert Douglas who is Head of Keyboards at Oundle School. Welcome Robert!
There are many ways you can help us by getting involved, for example: join our Friends’ membership scheme, become a volunteer, host an artist, sponsor an event or offer support in kind. For more information about these and other ways to help, please check our GET INVOLVED page.
