Favourite things (and good causes) that we wouldn’t be without

Jeux d’Esprit presents By the Sleepy Lagoon
Henley town hall
Sunday, November 23

JILL Richardson, a prominent figure in the Jeux d’Esprit theatrical group, treated the audience to a unique afternoon event in support of the Chiltern Centre.

Inspired by the popular format of Desert Island Discs, Jill invited eight local people, to talk about their organisations and to choose a favourite piece of music, a book and a luxury item.

The interviews, deftly conducted by Tim Harling, offered insights into the contributors’ various organisations and their personal selections, resulting in a charming and diverse showcase. The musical choices ranged from Dvorak to Oasis, while the luxury items were equally varied, from a saw to pencil and paper.

The first guest, Gail Rosier, represented the Acorn Music Theatre Company. She spoke about her long involvement with this vibrant and dynamic group of young people. Gail chose Freshwater, a song written and performed by the folk musician Megan Henwood.

Next, Sally Rankin, a leading light in local wildlife projects, took the stage. She described the admirable work carried out by Greener Henley focusing efforts to promote environmental awareness and protect local wildlife. Sally’s chosen song was Myfanwy, performed by a trio of Welsh tenors and her selected book was The Year by the late Professor Richard Fortey, a respected naturalist.

The contributor, Patrick Mulcahy, of the Henley Lions, explained the group’s role in supporting events in Henley while raising money for good causes in the community. The Lions organise Santa’s yearly visit to Henley.

Patrick chose an Irish song, In the Rare Old Times, sung by the Dubliners, a song lamenting the changes and redevelopment in Dublin. Wendy Hawkins, a founder member of Henley Choral Society, shared her experiences with this large, inclusive choir which has recently celebrated its 50th anniversary. She selected an excerpt from Dvorak’s Symphony No 8. She chose a book on birds and binoculars for her luxury item.

Tim Prior, from the Nomad youth and community project, sketched out the wide range of services it delivers to young people and families in Henley. Tim chose Wonderwall by Oasis, which apparently has a link to George Harrison and hence a Henley connection. His book would be one on football and his luxury item, a football.

Angelina Jones, a stalwart of the Toad Patrol, which guides vast numbers of toads across the A4155 road during the mating season, chose a large set of Beano comics for her book and the Specials singing Monkey Man.

The final two special guests represented the Chiltern Centre, which is the recipient of money raised by this event.

Paul Barrett, who is currently involved in the planned move of the centre to a new purpose-built site, chose Verdi’s Brindisi from La Traviata and he requested crime novels to read. Amelia Ash talked about her association as a volunteer and ambassador at the centre. She chose Mickey by Tony Basil — a perky end to a wonderful afternoon.

All participants received enthusiastic applause and warm thanks. A collection was also held for the Chiltern Centre.

Organiser Jill Richardson said: “You were a wonderfully enthusiastic audience which encouraged a warm response from the ‘castaways’. Between you, you raised a useful total of £1,440. Well done and please come again next year.”

Susan Edwards