The meeting began with a short presentation by Dr Kristian Skoczek, Post-doctoral Research Associate for Cardiff University's REVAMP project. He talked to us about the eye condition glaucoma and how we could help with new research. They are aiming to find better ways to detect visual field loss and are looking for volunteers aged over 40 to help them. It was an interesting talk, and Kristian stayed till the end, seeming to enjoy hearing about musicals that would have been produced long before he was born, and the singing. Many members talked to him after the meeting and he was pleased with so many people offering to be involved in the project.
The original production of Oklahoma was in 1943. It featured the tensions between farmers and cattle drovers. The original production also included ballet. It appeared as a film in 1955, being the first wide screen production. Christine sang the title song.
Her next song came from Carousel which was produced in 1947. Christine sang 'June is Busting Out All Over.'
This was followed by fascinating information about South Pacific, which won the Pullizer Prize. Mary Martin was a favourite singer of Rodgers and Hammerstein, but often stars were given the leading roles in the film productions of their musicals with Mary's voice dubbed. Christine sang 'Some Enchanted Evening'.
Next we heard about The King and I, with Christine singing 'Getting to Know You'. From Flower Drum Song we were had a delightful performance of 'I Enjoy Being a Girl'. Then the last musical described was the famous Sound of Music, in which everyone sang their own songs we were told. Christine entertained us with the title song and 'Climb Every Mountain'.
What a wonderful way to round up the first half of the year and break for the summer. The speakers were followed by tasty cakes with our beverages. Have a lovely summer.
