Talented instrumentalist Andy Eastwood, who has been described as “the busiest man in showbusiness”, will be the headline act at a variety show to be staged by the Kings of Herts barbershop harmony chorus next Friday, November 25.
The comedian and musician, who has performed with the likes of Ken Dodd, Des O’Connor, Max Bygraves and Danny La Rue, will top the bill and act as master of ceremonies at the Kings’ Melodies Bring Memories charity show at Harpenden Public Halls.
As well as the 35-strong barbershop chorus, four other acts will be introduced by the versatile Andy - jazz singer Alexandra Jones, the nationally-acclaimed Reunion a cappella harmony quartet, the century-old St Albans City Band and, much newer, Katie’s Jumping Fleas, a 15-strong ukulele band, also from St Albans.
Producer Peter Jouning said: “For those who have never seen the ukulele at its best this will be a fantastic opportunity because, not only do we have this talented local band, in Andy Eastwood we can watch one of the world’s foremost ukulele players in action.”
Andy studied classical violin and piano at an early age but developed a passion for jazz and popular music and made his mark at Oxford University by becoming the only musician to perform his degree recital there on the ukulele.
Ken Dodd gave him his break into theatre and he has made 300 appearances with the legendary comedian. Andy’s one-man show is in constant demand in theatres, cabaret venues, at corporate functions and on cruise liners, and such popularity led to The Stage magazine to dub him the busiest man in showbusiness.
Melodies Bring Memories is the sixth charity show the Kings have organised but the evening will be tinged with sadness for the club as it is the last time they will be led by chorus director Roger Chantrelle, who finishes a two-year term with this show.
Peter Jouning said: “Roger is retiring at the end of his second spell in charge and he will be a hard act to follow. He is a major figure on the national barbershop scene and sets high musical standards, but he has always directed with good humour and kindly tolerance. He will be greatly missed.”
Next week’s show will raise money for Rennie Grove Hospice Care and tickets at £13 and can be obtained from John Williams on 01582 760547 or email john.williams58@btinternet.com
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