How the music of Queen ‘rocked’ our Robert

If you want something done, ask a busy man - and Robert Blair is that man.

The former paramedic also has a long association with Limavady Drama Club, Londonderry Musical Society and Portrush Music Society. “I’m disappointed that all Rotary Club events had to be cancelled due to the lockdown. I had organised a President’s Night Dinner Dance for April 18, maybe we can reschedule for September/October when I hope to raise over £1,000 for Foyle Hospice.

“One idea I have for fundraising is scrap metal. When restrictions are lifted, I will collect any unwanted white goods such as broken washing machines, tumbler driers, dish washers, bicycles, cars etc and take them to T-Met in Eglinton, the proceeds to be donated to Rotary charities.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“As a retired Health Care Worker, I would say - listen to the Government’s advice, stay at home, stay safe and stay coronavirus free.”

Q. What is your favourite song/album?

A. “Your Song” by Elton John and Bernie Taupin. My favourite album is “A Night at the Opera” by Queen. I grew up in the 70s with Elton and Freddie.

Q. What is your favourite film?

A. “It’s a Wonderful Life”. I defy anyone to watch it and not shed a tear.

Q. What is your favourite piece of classical music?

A. I don’t listen to any classical music.

Q. Who is your favourite artist?

A. My son Simon, who is a graphic designer in Manchester. For his Art Foundation course he did a feature on me. It was mad to walk into an exhibition and have a booth of my image staring back.

Q. What is your favourite play?

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

A. Affluence by Wesley Burrowes. I played the Rev Stokes in Limavady Drama Club’s productions in 1985 and 2002.

Q. What is your favourite musical?

A. “We will Rock You”. I had to sit through it four times at the Millennium Forum - and get paid for the privilege! Most musicals have one or maybe two songs which are well known or make it into the charts but with “We will Rock You”, they are all hits.

Q. What is your most special moment in the arts?

A. I got a high during “Hello Dolly” in 1987 with Portrush Music Society when Mark Roughan and I lifted Olive Hemphill up at the end of her song.

Q. What ‘classic’ just doesn’t do it for you?

A. The musical “Rent.” It was on in the Millennium Forum years ago, there was a light on stage that kept moving and shining in my eyes, and I couldn’t get into the music. Went to the pub at the interval.

Q. What do you plan to read/watch/listen to/revisit during the coronavirus period?

A. I plan to read all the Lee Child books about Reacher (again) and watch a movie on Netflix most nights.