Last night I experienced a wonderful cultural evening. The setting was Tamworth Town Hall built in 1701, the upper chamber where many a meeting will have been held. The room housed a beautiful horseshoe table and pictures of men of old hung on the walls giving grandeur to the setting.
Having lived in Tamworth for 40+ years this was my first glimpse of the Mayor's Chambers. The Mayor, dressed in his gold chain of office, gave my husband and I a private viewing of the silverware cabinets in the Mayor's Parlour. Such a beautiful building, well kept and probably under used. The treasures glistened behind glass and the curator pointed out the oldest piece. I hope it is well alarmed!
The Tamworth Literary Festival organised a Dickens' Penny Readings evening as it was thought Dickens came our way in years gone by and read his works and promoted his books. An actor/reader posed as Dickens (2nd from left) and gave voice to the life of someone we have all heard of but probably know little about his private life. We will have, perhaps seen films or stage plays of his books, some may even have read or studied his bound works. Our Dickens, in fine voice, told his life story and mentioned his works, his loves and marriage, children, poverty, travels etc. It was fascinating and very realistic. Then he gave us a rendition of a scene from 'Oliver Twist' where poor old Nancy and the horrible Bill Sykes met their ends. I could 'see' the happenings in my minds eye as the narrator put various tones to his voice and actions with his hands.
The audience had been invited to dress in costumes of the times. Alas only a handful of the 40-50 people attending participated but looked so very elegant as you can see in the photo. Mulled wine and mince pies were enjoyed by all afterwards. Thanks to the Committee Members of Tamworth Literary Festival for a lovely evenings' entertainment.
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