Larne Choral Society’s ‘American Dream’

The theme for the concert was ‘The American Dream’, this year being the 50th anniversary of Martin Luther King’s famous ‘I have a dream’ speech.

The Choral Society was joined by the Harlandic Male Voice Choir and Killyglen Accordion Orchestra.

Thanks are extended by the organisersto Roy Lappin for the loan of his American model, a Ford, which was admired by everyone on the way into the venue, and to David Stitt for the loan of the American flag.

The scene was set by both choirs entering the hall to the strains of ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’, with the American flag visible to all.

Alan Beattie was compere for the evening and he had the capacity audience laughing out loud all night with his witty observations and humorous anecdotes.

The Choral Society, expertly directed by Elaine Hawthorne and accompanied by Gwen Dick, began the night with ‘The lullaby of Broadway’ and ‘Anything goes’ – sung with passion and skill.

The Harlandic choir then entertained the audience, ably conducted by John Lyttle and accompanied by Archy McNeill, with songs including ‘Battle-hymn of the Republic’ and the haunting ‘American Trilogy’.

Killyglen Accordions captivated the audience, under the baton of their M.D. David Hawthorne, with ‘I don’t know how to love him’ and ‘Can you feel the love tonight?’. Both were met with rapturous applause.

The Choral Society brought the first part of the evening to a close with ‘Anything you can do’ which saw the men vying with the ladies to see who was ‘doing better’; they did equally well.

After the break, the Choral Society sang two contrasting songs; ‘Strike up the band’ and ‘What’ll I do?’. Both were equally enthralling and encapsulated what the evening was all about.

Following some banter between Alan and Archy, the Harlandic choir entertained everyone with ‘One moment in time’, ‘Morte Christe’ and had the audience singing along with ‘Amen, This little light’ which sounded terrific.

Killyglen Accordions performed a tremendous rendition of ‘Skyfall’, beautifully sung by Laura Bell and ‘Music’; both of which displayed the full range of talent in the orchestra.

The night was brought to a close by the Choral Society singing a medley by Irving Berlin entitled ‘From Rags to Ritz’ and the beautiful ‘I have a Dream’ which paid tribute to Martin Luther King.

The choir demonstrated their ability to rise from soft, atmospheric dynamics to a rousing climax.

The appreciative audience stood as the choirs were again accompanied by Elaine and Gwen playing ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’.

Maureen Thompson, president of Larne Choral, thanked all who had helped make the night run smoothly before delicious refreshments were served by the ladies of the Choral Society.