Richard Wilcocks writes:
Doug Sandle |
Maria Sandle |
The Retrolettes |
Maria, along with the two charming Retrolettes (Teresa and John) produced some new songs about the IOM which I had not heard before, some with a music hall flavour which must have been aimed at holidaymakers a century ago. People can easily get entranced by the Isle of Man, sometimes literally, as Ray Brown's worrying tale about bad luck following his venture into an ancient burial site showed. Respectful visitors should be nice to the fairies, especially when crossing a certain bridge. They are a superstitious lot back there, says Doug. Do they also believe in homeopathy? He is entranced by the place where he was brought up, and his entrancement was catching. It was a fascinating afternoon.
Opening of Ellan Vannin |
Ming Wei Chong writes:
This splendid performance resonates with me - being a University of Leeds
graduate and having come from another country. The links between Leeds and the
Isle of Man, history, personal experiences - beautifully encapsulated in the poetry,
music, story and song. Very insightful and entertaining, Doug illustrates his
strong sense of cultural and national identity as well as his encounters as 'A
Manxman in Leeds'.
The attraction of the Island for writers and painters were exemplified
throughout. Doug reinforced the Island as a superb holiday destination, whilst
reminding us to say 'good morning/ afternoon little ones' when we visit the
Fairy Bridge in the south of the Island!
Audience comments
Excellent talk and slides also music from Maria Sandle and The
Retrolettes.
A very enjoyable afternoon.
A personal pleasurable indulgence. Brilliant prose and music
and entertainment. Surprising facts and a real bonus of a show!
Brilliant - a great mix of history, story and song and very
entertaining.
Very interesting and felt privileged to be part of this
event. Though Irish and an admirer of the Isle of Man I will definitely be
visiting soon - much more informed now. Thank you.
An entertaining and moving afternoon with Doug and friends.
Music, memories and 'spooky stories'. Thank you.
Excellent talk and songs - especially as I have strong Manx
connections.
Brought a tear to my eye.
Fascinating historical and geographical information and
coincident - beautifully helped by lovely apt songs.
Very enjoyable afternoon. Learnt a lot about the Isle of Man
- and songs complemented the performance.
This is a fine cosy venue. The performance was very warm and
entertaining.
A very nice afternoon with Doug Sandle giving us some
information from him having grown up on the Isle of Man. I also enjoyed the singing
from his wife Maria and The Retrolettes. I did think though that the venue was
a bit packed out.
Informative, entertaining and quirky!
Very enjoyable mix of music and memories
Excellent entertainment.
Good event especially The Retrollettes who are simply Divine
- but seriously - very entertaining a bit chaotic but nice and informal.
Delightfully disorganised event. Interesting and
entertaining collection of memories and poems. Loved Doug's poems - not so sure
about the music.
Interesting and informative
Lovely
Interesting (illegible) mix