Radio Days Big Band Oxford - for swing band, big band and dance band music in Oxford and the UK

Henley Regatta - Sunday July 6th 2008

With a forecast of inclement weather the band hurried to set up on stage and get organised ready for a 3:30 start. The weather lived up to its reputation and down came the rain just before the band was due to start playing. Just as rain delayed play at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships rain delayed the start of the Radio Days Big Band performance. Band members took shelter where ever they could; on stage, in the bar and even in the toilet (!) whilst waiting for the downpour and thunderstorm to pass!
The rains eventually stopped, our audience emerged from the bar, the missing band members made it to the stage and Facilities brought the chairs.... we were ready to start!
We soon attracted an appreciative audience including some Lindy Hoppers who braved the mud to jive along to the sounds of Glenn Miller!
We were also very pleased that Debbie Curtis from the Debbie Curtis Radio Big Band came along to offer her support. Debbie and friends arrived in a 1928 Austin Police car; I understand it was an interesting drive in to Henley through the pouring rain in the Austin!
We all greatly appreciate Debbie's support and encouragement. Thank you for coming. Angela and Joe got the opportunity to sit in the car ... it was lovely! A police car with beautiful leather seats..... I bet they're not like that now.
Sadly we had not long started our second set when down came the rain again. Whilst most of our audience headed back to the shelter of the Bar Barn a few brave fans stayed sitting at their benches hidden under golfing umbrellas! Two die hard fans even braved the monsoon style rain to carry on dancing!
Despite the adverse weather conditions, which made life a little tricky at times, the band played well.
Thank you to everyone who came to see us at Henley. We hope to be back next year and we hope the weather will be better.


Review by Gella
7 July 2008