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History
of the Acoustic Tearoom, a folk venue in Cumbria England
The stoic exterior
of the handsome Masonic Hall seems almost opposite to what goes
on evenings in the interior. The Acoustic Tearoom in Kirkby
Stephen, Cumbria, England is host to a diverse artistic
population. Musicians and comics in close comradeship with their
audience can shine in the smaller venue that holds about 60
people. As with many places, friends gathering and sharing their
talents sparked the idea of a location to broadened the audience
beyond. Though still small enough to be intimate, talent
flourishes because of the discriminating audience it draws. Folk
and blues shows feel right at home here. It's not a place to
hear the poppy, multimillionaires that seem more interested in
money than sharing voice and song although some big names play
here. Dining is also a featured attraction if one desires it or
just a show if that's preferred. Cost is relevant to this
choice. Alcoholic beverages are bring your own wine, but carry
out what you bring as a courtesy. Even the empties.
Numerous solo
artists as well as groups book here. In the musical forte, one
group of gentlemen in particular have generated worldwide
notoriety and that's Acoustic Strawbs. Sounding as perfect as
ever, Dave Cousins, Dave Lambert, and Chas Cronk blend their
melodies acoustically and spin tales that still dazzle after
over 40 years. Kieran Halpin's luscious vocals and guitar,
sometimes gentle and sometimes edgy, can be thought provoking
and the emotion of his voice is highly apparent in this cozy
setting. The dynamic pairing of Steve Knightley and Phil Beer
becomes Show of Hands and traditional music keeps one from being
sat still. Their beautiful harmony breathes the English
countryside and history. Phil Beer is a flying wonder on the
fiddle as well as a solo voice with his guitar. There's a depth
of passion to share not just love of the song, but the love of
the people and the stage.
If a chortle is your desire, the comedic ramblings and songs of
From Here to Absurdity will split your sides and have you
gasping in surprise at their outrageousness. They hit close to
home. Sometimes too close. If physical daftness is in order, The
Amazing Mr. Smith will fit the bill. From his Rockette-like
dance troupe that's always in perfect sync to one of a kind
instruments, he's a one man band like no other.
Other preoccupations are about the building, which also is home
to Rattan and Rush, where furniture caning is not only done, but
taught periodically. Like stepping back in time with treasures
lurking everywhere, the shop has porcelain and pottery in
beautiful cabinetry. Vintage artwork, mirrors, and clocks hang
on the walls. Photos framed, cluster in groupings. Another area
of the hall brings in crafters that flock to the shop to offer
their own expertise helping others learn in workshops. There are
also craft fairs twice monthly for the selling of handmade wares
by local artisans. All prices are quite reasonable. The Masonic
is a beehive of activities for creators as well as the creative.
Accidents in the Middle Ages |