Gawsworth Hall 22 July 2007

[Stephany]

Hi Danny,

Thanks for the update. £10,000? That is absolutely incredible.
Very well done!! Hayley will be delighted to hear the news.

Tonight's concert must be over by now so I hope you all had a smashing time.
Grant must be on his way home but I'm too tired so I'm gonna go to bed before he posts one of his fabulous reports.

Best wishes from Paris,
Stephany

[grant]

Hayley at Gawsworth Hall

Part 1

The drive over to the small Cheshire village of Gawsworth was uneventful and took just over an hour. By 1245pm I was stationed by the huge wrought iron gates to the Hall, one of which was open. Shortly, Simon, the ‘Lord of the Manor’ appeared and advised me that I was at the head of the queue. As there was no one else present, I considered myself to be the queue, but thought it best to keep that thought to myself.

The gate was then pushed to and yours truly put in charge of ensuring that no one is let in. “Not even Hayley” I enquired to myself as Simon ambled back up the drive. I’ve been through the ‘Gawsworth ritual’ before so know what to expect. AS you might have guessed, the family is charming though somewhat eccentric!

The next hour was passed chatting to people now forming the snake like queue down the drive, many with wheelbarrows and trolleys stacked with gazebos, tables, chairs – you name it.

The rule is that seats may not be reserved before 2pm and believe me that rule is strictly adhered to and, give them their due, everything is done fairly. First we are marched onto the drive and held until precisely 2pm and we are then led in an orderly fashion to the grandstand. Overtaking up to this point is strictly forbidden!!

I manage to secure myself a good seat on the second row, right by an isle with an excellent view of the stage and perfect for photography. No one seems to know when Hayley is expected so it’s going to be a case of waiting at the top of the drive. At least I know that the sound check will be round about 5pm because there are notices everywhere apologising for the fact that the grandstand will be closed whilst it takes place.

This is disappointing news, but understandable given the circumstances last year when Hayley tried to get on with it with people flooding in to watch and take photo’s and yes, I was one of them! But it made a mockery of what was trying to be achieved and I gather Hayley pretty much gave up in the end.

So I duly took up station under the big Oak at the top of the drive and waited. The day had dawned bright, warm and sunny but by 3pm it had clouded over and we felt a few spots of rain. I’ve met up with a great couple, Andy and Vicky, attending their first concert and they decide to join me waiting for Hayley’s arrival. The rain is getting steadily heavier and by 3.30pm it is torrential so we retire to the shelter of the Lytch Gate from where we can still see the drive.

At 4.20pm the rain is becoming torrential again as a black people carrier enters the drive. I am sure this will be Hayley but with rain soaked and blacked out windows it is impossible to tell. Convinced that it was them and disappointed that we had not been seen, we made our way back to the grandstand.

I am soon convinced that it was Hayley, as shortly after, tour manager Ray comes up to stage to see what’s what. Now I didn’t think I knew Ray at all, but as he walked across the stage, he saw me, and greeted me with a “Hi! How are you?” maybe he recognised my HWI sweatshirt (very glad I brought it with me as it’s turned quite cold) I don’t know, but suddenly I felt right at home!

More in a little while

[grant]

Part 2

There is no point trying to get in to watch the sound check, but I make sure that I am as close as possible so as to be able to hear every note and hopefully get my first glimpse of Hayley today. Both entrances to the grandstand are protected by thick hedges and at this point in time by the larger members of staff! He seemed quite amenable though especially when someone else started talking about the latest Harry Potter book!

I did get a glimpse of Hayley. Today she is wearing a pair of grey jeans and a dark chunky top. For the sound check she is putting a lot of effort into “Let Me Lie” and “Summer Fly” singing both through completely twice followed by Caccini’s Ave Maria. At least the rain has eased off to a steady drizzle.

By 6pm we are allowed back into the grandstand and I decide to settle down to wait for the concert. That is, until I see Ray heading towards the front of the house carrying a large box. A plan is formulated immediately and I hurry after him. I have already arranged for Vicky and Andy to come with me to where our group waited for the car last year in the hope that they will see us and stop. Well, no point taking chances and I have a contingency plan!

Caught up with Ray who is trying to set up a sales stall outside in the rain without things getting wet! I also spotted Ian and we shook hands as he explained that they had seen us when they arrived and that they had been waving, so I apologised to Ian for not waving back because we couldn’t see a thing. Now Ray is free and comes over to chat. Apparently, Hayley would like to do a signing if they can find somewhere warm with enough room. I deduced therefore that it is not likely to happen. Anyway, I mentioned that Andy and Vicky had never met Hayley and if we waited etc… would they etc… I returned to the grandstand to tell my new friends of my cunning plan.

By the time the concert was due to start the evening had improved to blue sky and the grandstand and lawn seating was packed to capacity. Once again this year, Hayley’s is the only event to be a sell out. Ian, Mischa and Fiona came onto stage and did a bit of fine tuning to their instruments and then Simon appeared to introduce the evening – with more bad news – “Hayley has requested that there be no photography of any kind” Although I suspect this is venue management and not Hayley’s request, there is no option but to comply – drat!! He then welcomed Hayley onto stage with deafening applause.

Hayley appeared wearing her ‘Chichester’ white dress and silver high heels. As always she looks radiant. Opening with Caccini’s “Ave Maria”, after which she introduced her band, making the point that all were from Christchurch but the turning to Ian to ask where he was from. When he replied “London” she giggled and referred to him as an ‘honorary Kiwi’. Her first set then continued with “The Water Is Wide” and “Scarborough Fair” In introducing this last one, Hayley mentioned her tour with Celtic Woman and how much she enjoyed the experience, but that she hadn’t enjoyed the tour bus experience quite so much!

Now it was Fiona’s turn and she immediately kicked off her shoes, explaining that this tune was one she had written only recently called Tanggisimo” She then talked a bit about home and that she had written her next one “Memories of Home” to remind her of it. “Firefly” was her final tune written, she said, whilst she was in “a fabulous hotel in Singapore with Hayley” adding that she gets to see some wonderful places thanks to Hayley.

Hayley then returned as Fiona’s applause was dying down suggesting we give her another round of applause which we happily did. “One Fine Day” was next from Hayley and I’m sure she’s holding that long note even longer nowadays. I really love that song the way Hayley puts it across. Next, Hayley asks who knows the story of Hansel & Gretel and I think most hands went up, knowing that “Prayer” was coming next. Similarly, when Hayley began to start talking about Grandparents and Christmas holidays, I’d already written “Danny Boy” before she mentioned the song. And so to the interval.


There's still more!

[grant]

Part 3

Refreshed and watered we returned to our seats for part 2 of the evenings entertainment which was kicked of by Fiona (as were her shoes again!) Fiona’s first tune was “Memories of Martin and Mary” but tonight she gave us a bit more of the story that I personally have never heard before. Apparently, Martin took her off to a pub about half an hour from where she was staying to hear a guitarist and when closing time came at 11pm, all the patrons hid behind the bar with the lights out until the local bobby went past with his torch and then they carried on into the small hours!.

From the very moment Hayley returned to stage she was perhaps at the most chattiest I have seen her. First saying that someone had sent a letter backstage for her asking for a request. It was for a 7 year old boy who’s name I didn’t catch and she asked where he was. He’d asked for something from “Pure” but Hayley said she couldn’t do that because they hadn’t rehearsed it (‘Moon perhaps?) but she said this one is from the same album and it’s one of my favourites. It was “Pokarekare Ana”. Maybe it’s that gorgeous green gown that Hayley wore for the second half that does it. Maybe it affects Hayley the same way it affects us.

When she began to introduce her next song, she mentioned another letter that had been sent back stage for her by a girl called Hannah, who Hayley promptly picked out in the audience saying she recognised her from last year. Hayley then said that the comment about photography had been incorrect and that it was only flash photography that was not allowed (Grrrrr!!).

Next thing, a guy on the front row of the lawn seats got up to fetch his camera which seemed to really amuse Hayley because she giggled and suggested she sing her next song very slowly. It was really fun to see her enjoying herself so much and interacting with the audience in that way.

Shenandoah came next but, being an open air concert, Hayley couldn’t use her usual “The doors are locked!” gag, so when she mentioned the 100 verses she just paused and waited for the reaction which she got bless her! At the end of the song, the guy came back with his camera and promptly knocked over his beer, which Hayley spotted and told everyone before he realised it himself.

Hayley continued with “Summer Fly”, “Let Me Lie”, “Santa Lucia” and “In Trutina” and once again we have arrived at the end of a concert. For her last song, Hayley began talking about New Zealand and Lord of the Rings and her final song “May It Be”

Half way through this last number, a woman was taken ill about half way back in the grandstand, but directly in front of Hayley and a medic was summoned. How Hayley managed to finish the song, there was hardly any visible sign but she must have wondered “Do I carry on or do I stop?” She did carry on and left the stage to rousing applause and shouts of “More! More!!” Hayley did return, briefly, to say “Someone in the audience’s ill, I can’t do another one, sorry” but she did seem quite upset. No encore, no chance to say that all important final goodbye, thank you and stuff. Not Hayley’s fault, not anybody’s fault really, just unfortunate.

I left the grandstand and met up with my friends and we headed down to our agreed rendezvous point. I’m quite surprised that it is already 10 minutes to 10. After about 20 minutes, Danny joined us briefly, having just presented Hayley with the cheque he’s already posted about, to say that they shouldn’t be long leaving.

Unfortunately, Vicky and Andy have to get home to relieve a baby sitter and I am left on my own. Time marches on as slowly the final few guests depart as do some of the staff. I did manage to speak to a couple of the girls to try to find out the condition of the poor woman taken ill in the hope that I could pass on some good news to Hayley as they left.

I should have know shouldn’t I, that Hayley would not leave without finding out for herself? Not only that, she had changed and gone up to the grandstand personally to see the lady and even had her picture taken with her. Now when someone cares enough to do that, you just know how special they are!

Anyway, the upshot of all that is they were ages coming out. Now I don’t have any problem waiting for Hayley, but when everyone gradually dwindles away, the last few cars disappear, management comes out to lock up the loos and it has become very very quiet! There’s just a little bit of me desperate to get back to my car and safety! Naturally Hayley wins and I stick it out until eventually headlights appear moving very slowly. It is them at last.

I’m not sure whether or not ray told Hayley of my request, but Ray had not forgotten and pulled the car to a stand. I didn’t note the type of people carrier it was but the rear doors were the type that slide back. It seemed as though Hayley suddenly spotted me standing all alone under the light and opened the door with an exclaimed “What are you still doing here?” “Waiting for you” was the only cool thing that came into my head, but Hayley had the door open – far better than just a window – her seat belt was off and she turned towards me.

I made sure she was happy about the situation with the woman taken ill and explained that my friends had had to go to relieve their baby sitter but that they had thoroughly enjoyed their first concert, which seemed to please Hayley. I said to Hayley that I was sorry we were unable to have an encore and asked her what it would have been. She answered almost apologetically that it would most likely have been “Sonny”

I put on my sad face and dipped my hand into my bag to retrieve the bar of chocolate carefully placed there, and handed it to Hayley with my best “I think you’re the tops” smile. Holding the bar up so all could see “We Got Chocolate!!” she squealed in a way that was so delightful to watch. Then turning to me so seriously she said “You don’t have to bring chocolate every time”. My turn to giggle.

With the open door I felt much closer than had it been just an open window, even managing to say “Hi” to Fiona whom I hadn’t actually had the opportunity to speak to earlier. What a great bunch of people they all are.

Time to let them get on their way, I wished all a safe journey home and Hayley asked where I had to go and how long it would take. Once again I felt I was saying goodbye to friends as I watched their tail lights disappear in the distance. Now, where did I leave my car!

Best wishes
Grant

Footnote:

Andy and Vicky, it was great meeting you and I am so pleased you enjoyed the concert. I did have to wait quite a bit longer for Hayley as you will gather because if you’re reading this, you’ll probably have read my review! Robert. Great meeting you too, I look forward to hearing that you’ve all joined our forum and become a part of Hayley’s amazing ‘extended family’

Pictures to follow tomorrow if they're any good!

[Joe]

Hello Grant !

Many thanks for your review! And so quicky too! Sounded like a wonderful set of songs too.

Sorry to hear of the woman in the grandstands who became ill during Hayley's last song. That was good of Hayley to personally ensure the woman was alright.

Get some rest, Grant! Looking forward to the photos!

Best wishes,
Joe

[Belinda]

Hi Grant,
Certainly sounds like you had a fantastic time,

Look forward to seeing any pics that turn out ok JK
I'm sure they will be wonderful.

Danny excellant final figure for Unicef Bikes for Ghana

thats about 26,000 NZ dollars i.postimg.cc/9fYxy370/smilie-big-grin.gif WOW

Well Done

Belinda

[timj]

Great report Grant, sorry for the weather, I'm ready for pix!!.....TimJ

[graemek]

Grant,
You write with your heart & soul.
Very very readable & very touching ,
Thank you,
Graeme

[Stephany]

Hi Grant,

Words cannot explain what I feel each time I read one of your reviews.
I always find myself smiling, laughing or reacting as if I was there (eg: 'ooooooh, no encore )
Thanks a million for sharing your comments and personal thoughts!
Very sorry that you had to go to bed late because of us

Love,
Stephany

[gerard]

Really great report Grant, thank you so much. It is almost, almost, as good as being there (but without the rain !).

[Martin]

Hello Grant
Thank you for this amazing and moving report - you're best ever.

Martin

[Mark]

Hi Grant

So pleased that you had a good time and thankyou so much for your report. As Martin says, I think this one ranks as one of your best to date I really did feel that I was there with you - as your writing is so descriptive, I find myself picturing the scene in my mind.

So pleased also that the lady who was ill appeared ok in the end and how thoughtful of Hayley to personally make sure she was feeling better. Having been to see Hayley on my own once before (although, for you Danny was there of course - thanks for your report earlier Danny and for helping to raise a fantastic £10,000), you do find yourself wanting to tell people about Hayley and talk about her to people that you meet (in the absence perhaps of other HWI members).

Somehow between us, we have managed recently to make sure that at least one of us made contact with Hayley at Porthcawl, Eisteddfod and now at Gawsworth - on behalf of all our members

Best regards
Mark

[grant]

Thank you all for your very kind comments about my Gawsworth review and thank you Stephany for your concern about keeping me up late at night to write it. Truth is, I start composing on my way home as I relive all the special memories and I have to get it written or I would never get to sleep!

Remembered a few other bits and pieces lying in bed this morning. I mentioned to Ian that I would like to get a picture of Hayley, Ian and Fiona together and that it was proving difficult. Now I know why! Ian doesn’t like having his picture taken, but seemed OK with the idea although he said that he thought it had been done about 12 months ago. Anyone any idea where? Anyway, I guess a ‘new’ picture should also include Mischa.

Talking of Mischa, there was a moment between songs where he ‘tweaked’ a couple of strings quietly as Hayley was finishing off her chat. She turned to him quite happily and asked “are we OK?”, then turned back to the audience explaining that it was difficult to keep in tune in damp weather then, turning back to her musicians, made a general comment to the effect that it wasn’t causing as much of a problem as it could have.

Perhaps the most significant aspect of last night that only dawned this morning was the fact that seeing Hayley after the concert, was another Hayley ‘first’ for me in that I had them completely to myself for that short time and I was leaning against the open door as though it was the most natural thing in the world. Thank you Hayley for just being you! And thank you Ray, Fiona, Ian and Mischa for being there to.

Think that’s everything. Pictures to follow shortly.

Best wishes
Grant

[grant]

Hi all!

here are the first of my pictures.

2pm - the sun shines down on the venues specially constructed stage taken from my seat in the grandstand, with the house as a backdrop



4pm - waiting for Hayley (this is not her walking up the drive). Note that the weather has deteriorated just a bit!



Ian and Ray check the layout of the sound system



It's still raining! Fiona has a special use for her 'Intergalactic Plasma Shelter' as she leaves the stage with Ian.



OK! Who shouted "We want Hayley!!"? Well, you'll have to shout louder than that.

More this afternoon

Best wishes
Grant

[Stephany]

Hi Grant,

Great pictures, I particularly like the one of Fiona with her umbrella.
The rain is pretty impressive I need Fiona's umbrella for Manchester!
I look forward to seeing more pics! Thanks for sharing!

Stephany