Sell-out annual show raises £1,100

Once again, Huntingdon Cromwell Rotary’s Vaudeville was a sell out success. There were a sensational range of variety acts for the audience to enjoy. Musicians, singers, dancers, a choir, a comedian and even a ventriloquist took to the stage. In true Leonard Sachs tradition, MC Chris Shannon gave each performer an elaborate and erudite introduction.

The show opened with an amazing toe-tapping number performed by youngsters from Roz Clark’s Theatre Artz, dancing to the music of Stepping Out. An accomplished 14 year old harpist followed.

Cecilia started playing her favourite instrument at the age of four and made her first charity appearance at just six years old. At the age of eight Cecilia busked in both Cambridge and Huntingdon to rai- se money for landmine clearance in Laos. Cecilia won a music scholarship to St Marys, Cambridge and last year was one of the three winners of The Charities Cup.

As well as raising money, Rotary’s Vaudeville offers an opportunity for these young people to perform to an audience. St Ives Rotary also was involved, helping talented Cecilia purchase a suitable instrument.

Following a lot of laughter with comedian Ray, the Music Hall Society brought a touch of the Good Old Days when they performed an extract from The London Scene, a show with songs and nostalgia up to and including the 1900’s.

After an interval for a superb ploughman’s supper the show continued with numbers by the Hereward Harmony barbershop chorus and vocal soloists. And then, something completely different, a TV entertainer who’s fame precedes him - a man with many friends – most of whom he keeps in a box. Ventriloquist Chris Bylett describes himself as “A man who gets paid to talk to himself.” What a climax – tears of laughter with Chris and his wonderful Desmond Duck.

Sadly, it was time for the Grand Finale – all performers back on stage and a bit of audience participation. As well as providing the local community with a great evening of entertainment, thanks to the generosity of performers who gave their time free of charge, Rotary’s Vaudeville 2019 raised over £1100 net profit – well done everyone.