Spangles in Festive Mood
Spangles kicked off their Christmas season by singing for the APAH charity at Iceland Overseas in San Javier, on Saturday, 29 November, helping them raise 836.69 Euros. They then went on to celebrate their tenth anniversary at the Hotel Traiña in San Pedro del Pinatar, with a ‘Sing-along-a-Grease’ in the afternoon, with everyone joining in the Grease spirit with some fabulous outfits. “We invited old and new members, family and supporters, and we had a ball” remarked Lyn Baines, Co-Chorus Manager. “It’s amazing to think that the gem of an idea sprung at a barbeque at a friend’s house all those years ago would blossom into a 45 strong chorus ten years later.” Lyn founded the chorus with Anthea Prentice back in 2004 and, with the help of inspirational Musical Directors and lots of coaching; the chorus has grown to what it is today.
The afternoon’s entertainment was followed by a ‘posh’ dinner, with chorus award presentations and topped off with a lively disco and karaoke entertainment, provided by Linden B. “The food was superb, the accommodation excellent and the staff looked after us really well, as always.” commented Lyn.
Not resting on their laurels, Spangles got into the Christmas swing on Sunday, 7 December, singing for the volunteers and customers visiting the HAH (Help at Home) Christmas Fayre at Bulevar Oasis in Los Alcázares. There was a cold wind blowing, but the sun was shining and a good crowd had gathered to support the charity and hear Spangles sing. “We were delighted to see Anthea, aided by a walker, arrive to sing with us” commented Gail Grainger, Spangles Musical Director. “Anthea had only recently been discharged from hospital after an operation for a broken knee cap but, being the trouper that she is, she was determined not to miss out on Spangles’ Christmas commitments.”
Thursday, 11 December saw Spangles’ last rehearsal at Las Claras and, after running through the new choreography for their contest up tune, the emphasis was on having fun, with a quiz, prize bingo, Secret Santa and a sumptuous buffet provided by the chorus members.
Dos Mares Shopping Centre welcomed Spangles on Saturday, 13 December, where they sang to shoppers, friends and family in front of the Belen. “Dos Mares is one of our favourite places to sing” said Lyn. “We always enjoy putting a smile on people’s faces and a festive skip in their step as they pass by.”
Spangles returns to rehearsals on Thursday, 8 January and they will have a very busy time ahead, honing their performance of two contest songs in readiness for the SABS (Spanish Association of Barbershop Singers) annual chorus contest in Benalmádena, Málaga next April. Spangles first won the gold medal in this contest in 2011 and their second in 2013, but choruses are not allowed to compete in the year following their win, so they will be going for their third gold medal in 2015. “We have to be on our mettle” remarked Gail, “we have other Spanish choruses snapping at our heels, so we must raise our game each time we compete and Spangles is doing this by hard work, dedication and determination.”
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