It’s several months since we brought you the disappointing news that the Ruddington Big Sing would not be returning for 2022 after all – having been cancelled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It had previously taken place every two years.
Postponed from 8th October last year, organisers Ruddington Community Choir have confirmed a rescheduled date this May – its traditional slot in the village calendar – with tickets available now! Organisers stress that the Big Sing is open to anyone and everyone who enjoys singing; you don’t have to be a member of a participating choir to attend.
The choir’s founder, Bernie Bracha (pictured below right), says: “After a cancellation in 2020 and a false start in October 2022, we’re excited to announce the return of The Ruddington Big Sing on Saturday 20th May 2023. All venues and workshop leaders are booked and tickets are now on sale.”
Spread across multiple venues in our village from 10am until 5.45pm, The Ruddington Big Sing 2023 will begin in St Peter’s Church with a mass warm-up and workshop. You’ll then have the chance to select two from a varied choice of six workshops before finishing the day with a late afternoon concert back in the church, featuring performances from the represented choirs.
Complimentary tea, coffee and biscuits will be available in St Peter’s Rooms from 9.15am ahead of the warm-ups and during breaks.
The previous Big Sings in 2016 and 2018 proved not only entertaining for the participants but also helped by giving local traders a boost. Once again, the Big Sing team will be encouraging participants to shop locally whilst visiting Ruddington. In fact, a range of special offers and discounts have been negotiated with village centre businesses – available exclusively to Ruddington Big Sing attendees.
Cath Rodkoff from the organising committee adds: “Make a date! During the lockdowns and subsequent restrictions, live music and the social aspect of group singing were really missed, so it’s super exciting that we’re able to make new plans with confidence.”
Tickets cost £20 for the whole day and can be purchased via Eventbrite. For more information about Ruddington Community Choir, please visit www.brachamusic.co.uk/ruddington.
Graham Wright via RUDDINGTON.info