On 6th July Ryhope Choir had a trip to Beamish to perform some 1950s songs at the official opening of the Grand cinema which had been recreated at Beamish from its former home in Ryhope.

The day started with a march into the new town led by Ryhope Allstars. Lots of people and organisations from the Ryhope area joined the march carrying banners. The choir dressed up in 50s outfits and performed three times at the Welfare Hall in the newly built 1950s town. We sang Que Sera Sera, Blue Suede Shoes/Hound Dog, Cry Me A River and Bye Bye Love to an appreciative audience, some of whom joined in and sang along.

We also had the chance to watch the film showing in the Grand cinema depicting life in Ryhope in the 1950s. The choir and St Paul’s church featured in the film along with some other local landmarks like the beach and the cemetery. It was a thoroughly enjoyable day and we look forward to performing at Beamish again at Christmas.

By Elaine Shanks