Volunteer-led folk concerts at Newport’s Apollo Theatre are helping raise vital funds to support Age UK Isle of Wight in tackling loneliness and isolation among older residents.
A programme of community-driven performances – supported by Carisbrooke & Newport Community Council and UNISON members – builds on the spirit of Operation Geranium, the Island’s pandemic project that connected vulnerable residents with support and companionship.
Earlier this year, the theatre hosted Fire and Dust, the Pete Townshend-commissioned musical project celebrating the life and legacy of Woody Guthrie. Narrated by Guthrie scholar Will Kaufman and performed by acclaimed folk songwriter Reg Meuross with guest musicians, the show highlighted Guthrie’s influence on artists including Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Ralph McTell and Joe Strummer.
On 2nd November, acclaimed British singer-songwriter and actress Charlie Dore brought her Songs for the Curious tour to Newport, accompanied by long-time collaborator Julian Littman of Steeleye Span. The performance blended music, storytelling and insight into Dore’s decades-long career.
Dore rose to international recognition with her 1978 Nashville-recorded hit Pilot of the Airwaves. After the band’s split – which saw 2 members depart to join the early formation of Dire Straits – she pursued a highly successful songwriting career. Her material has been recorded by Jimmy Nail, Paul Carrack, Celine Dion and Sheena Easton. She also performed Fear of Flying, produced for but never released by George Harrison.
Audience members were treated to rare anecdotes, a long-lost Elvis Costello song, and pieces co-written with Mercury Prize-winner Michelle Stodart of The Magic Numbers, who appeared as the bass player in the film Yesterday.
The ongoing concerts continue to support Age UK Isle of Wight’s work to help older Islanders remain connected, supported and independent.
