Much head scratching took place recently at Forestbrook Towers as we pondered how best to celebrate the double wonder of trees and summertime. Initial plans concerning the replacement of Nelson's Column with a giant spruce were scotched when we realised just how many extra pigeons might be encouraged to perch in Trafalgar Square. As ever, it turned out that the answer lay much closer to home ...
London is lucky enough to possess several areas of ancient woodland and, as one such area is situated round the corner from Forestbrook HQ, we decided to get in touch with the folks who look after it and ask them if we could stage a free concert there. Happily, the Friends of Queen's Wood agreed, so we've put together an event in honour of the summer solstice that we hope will highlight their cause and raise awareness about how precious these woods have become.
Here's the programme:
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19.00 – 20.00 |
The evening will begin with a walk led by our friend, Sam Bosanquet, a keen conservationist and natural historian. Meeting at the lodge café near the Muswell Hill Road entrance for 7pm, we'll take a tour around the woods and find out a bit about the local flora & fauna. |
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20.00 – 20.20 |
Having decamped to the "natural amphitheatre" provided by the old paddling pool in the heart of the wooods, musical festivities will commence with a turn from the marvellous Joanna Quail. She's going to treat us to a selection of Bach's cello suites and, if we're really lucky, the snazziest sunglasses this side of seventies San Francisco. |
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20.20 – 21.00 |
Next up, our five piece folkestra will lead the audience on a merry dance through jigs and reels. Hutch, Jo, Mary, Keith & Brona have also been practicing some haunting airs, so expect the woods to come alive with the sound of lilting folksong. |
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21.00 – 22.00 |
We'll crown the evening with refreshments back at the lodge café, accompanied by some tunes from the Forestbrook soundsystem and a woodland slideshow from Stefan Finnis. |
The Friends of Queen’s Wood will be collecting donations during the course of the evening to help fund local conservation activities and anyone donating more than £5 will be receive a complimentary drink!
It's very easy to get to the woods: they're located just behind Highgate tube station. Aside from a trip up the northern line, it's also possible to catch several buses all the way to the Muswell Hill Road entrance, so there's really every reason to join us if the weather is fine!