What a bonkers night! I’m finding it hard to find the best words to describe the crazy, musical spectacle we were part of at Pound Arts last night!
Graffiti Classics, as the group call themselves, is a madcap ensemble of four brilliantly talented string musicians made up of two violin, one viola and a double bass player. As an audience, at first glance, you could be forgiven for thinking that you are about to experience an evening of middle of the road cabaret music as you gaze upon these musicians dressed in the usual garb of black evening suits for the men and evening dresses for the women.
However as soon Carl, the double bass player and founding member, opens his mouth and your hear his southern Irish lilt and humorous banter, you get a strong sense that you’re in for an evening of good fun.
If you can imagine that Father Ted and his crew were all virtuoso musicians and were asked to play an evening of music on a cruise ship, it might give you some idea of what’s on offer from an evening with Graffiti Classics. There’s wonderful music with pieces like Air On The G String, as well as some high energy Eastern European folk compositions and even the Can-can, and all played with huge skill and a real joy to listen to.
But then there’s the dancing and the physical, slapstick-esque comedy, as well as the witty repartee and the audience participation. Sometimes it did feel a bit like we were watching a random selection of unconnected musical skits which made it feel a little weird, but perhaps it’s because it’s an unfamiliar style.
However, Graffiti Classics create a really relaxed and informal atmosphere which allows everyone to kind of go with the flow and encourages genuine interaction and participation with the audience. By the second half I had the feeling you might get from those old fashioned piano sing alongs in a local pub.
Graffiti Classics, I’m converted. I loved it, you were a joy and I left with a big smile on my face a warm feeling in my heart! Ellen Couzens
For information on more upcoming events at Pound Arts, go to https://poundarts.org.uk/
