Those who watch the popular TV show The Last Kingdom know that the ancient kingdom of Northumbria stretched from the Scottish borders down to Yorkshire, an area far larger than the present-day county of Northumberland. In May, Croydon hosts a celebration of the beautiful region in a mini-festival across four days and two venues, from Tuesday 9th May to Friday 12th May.

Alistair Anderson, arguably the world’s greatest English concertina player, and Bob Fox, former “Songman” in the West End show Warhorse, will both play at The Oval Tavern. The regular Oval Tavern quiz night will have a Northumbrian theme and Stanley Halls will host a Northumbrian-style ceilidh.

Alistair Anderson, who played concertina on Kate Bush’s single “Rocket Man”, co-founded Folkworks, which led to England’s first degree in traditional music at Newcastle University. During his visit to Croydon he will perform for and work with pupils at a local school, St. Mary’s Juniors in West Croydon. He specialises in the instrumental music of the county, which has its own unique instrument, the sweet and soft Northumbrian pipes.

Bob Fox’s career highlights include The Radio Ballads for the BBC, with Jez Lowe and Lindisfarne’s Billy Mitchell, as well as guesting with Fairport Convention. One of “the best voices in England” according to Ralph McTell, he sings the traditional songs of the North East with passion, conviction and beauty. Stanley Halls will host a Northumbrian-style ceilidh, and all are welcome to join in with this informal social dance. No prior experience or special equipment is needed and full, simple instructions will be given on the night. Part of the fun is getting it slightly wrong, so come along, have a laugh and keep fit at the same time.

“The Northumbria Festival came about by chance,” said Neil Woodcock, of promoters The Ukulele and Other Machines. “We had already organised one concert and then we decided we’d try to work collaboratively with other organisations. We knew Stanley Halls had a lovely room suitable for dancing, and had already hosted some great music, so we asked them if they’d want to hold a ceilidh to make it into a proper Northumbrian festival. Similarly Wendy Freer regularly runs a popular quiz night, and she was pleased to take part. Everyone was glad to agree to work in partnership with us and with Esther Sutton at The Oval Tavern. We ran a successful two-day ukulele festival last year, involving The Green Dragon and The Oval so we know venues can collaborate to spread quality artistic activity across the town.”

Enquiries about all events to: croydongigs@virginmedia.com.

Submitted by C.A. Whinnom