Hello, it’s me again. Yesterday, I attended Orb‘s Live Extravaganza. This includes a showcase of talent, a rear garden to view the Orb Art Group‘s work, a chance to have a go at one or two funfair type things, and places to chill out, to take part in an art happening or to listen to bands, solo artists and the cabaret in Orb’s building – all as part of Feva, which is Knaresborough’s annual festival of the arts.

I chose to stick with listening to music. What talent! The whole musical experience thrilled me, and was a great joy to listen to – and I hope other members of the audience felt the same.

A solo Orb volunteer entertained us with songs which were accompanied by his guitar. He had a gorgeous voice and handled his instrument very deftly.There were two or three excellent bands. One soloist in particular played and sang a haunting blues number, which really hit the spot with me.

We had a wonderful performance from a female rapper called Downright 4midable. Normally I detest rap, but I like her rapping style. A superb solo guitarist and singer had me spell bound as he tapped the neck and body of his guitar between playing it. This was followed by a fusion of visual images, sounds from nature and music that was the product of Orb’s evening classes: mind blowing, it appealed both to the music lover in me and the artist.

Lastly came Orb’s Cabaret. This was a truly awesome experience. There were superb performances from all the cast. The theme was “down with Health and Safety” – it is often too silly for words. Three performers really stood out. The first was the Cabaret Tutor, Miss Sophie Walsh-Harrington, the second was Mr. Mike Atkinson, and lastly Mr. Jon Galley.

Miss.Sophie Walsh-Harrington is a superb actress, singer and dancer. Mr. Mike Atkinson wowed us with his egotistical, bleak and slightly bitter character, and I loved his pink wig and pink feather boa. I loved Mr.Jon Galley’s portrayal of a very officious Health and Safety Officer – it was a hoot! I loved his singing accompanied by his guitar playing. His harmonica playing during part of the visual images, natural sounds and music event also took my breath away.

If you missed Orb’s Extravaganza this year, don’t miss it next year! Bye for now.