Alex Mendham and his orchestra
23rd June 2014
On a gloriously sunny June afternoon we took the train to St Pancras. I love this station. It has been the beginning and end of so many adventures over the last year. But today wasn’t an adventure; it was to dance!
Alex Mendham and his orchestra were playing on the top level of the station. The 11 piece band formed in 2010 to play early dance music from the 1920s and 1930s. Authenticity is key; this is not only about the music, but also the instruments and outfits. I have to say they were all dreadfully dapper. I do like a chap in white tie and tails!
The free dances at St Pancras have been hugely successful over recent months, attracting a cross section of dancers – both Vintage and mainstream. Some of the dancers I spoke to had attended the other dances (which had been held at the weekends). This being a Monday, meant it was quieter, which gave me a really good opportunity to watch some amazing dancers. Fleet of foot and jolly nimble – I really do need to practice more to get to that standard.
The music on the whole was toe-tappingly fast and bouncy and attracted an audience that matched the attendees. We thoroughly enjoyed it and will definitely be attending another one, even if you don’t dance it’s a fabulous opportunity to watch some very talented dancers and listen to great music.
The orchestra are playing at Riviera Swing and headlining Twinwood Festival (both of which I am attending this year). It has also made me want to go to one of their regular dinner dances at the Savoy – well who wouldn’t!
Sally x
