The Sheringham Shantymen once again took to the stage at the Cromer Pier Pavilion Theatre for their eagerly awaited annual RNLI fundraiser, this year celebrating the 200th anniversary of the RNLI with a special concert titled The Sail of Two Centuries. Playing to a sold-out crowd, the Shantymen marked the occasion with new songs, heartfelt presentations, and a powerful dedication to the lifesaving efforts of the RNLI.
The performance opened with a haunting rendition of Hoist the Colours, marking its first-ever public debut by the Shantymen. Bathed in red LED lighting and enveloped by smoke, the group set a dramatic and evocative atmosphere that captivated the audience from the very first note.
Adding to the evening’s excitement was a video introduction from renowned comedian and Monty Python legend, Michael Palin, who shared memories of childhood holidays in Sheringham and fondly recalled visiting the lifeboat station. In true Palin fashion, he brought humor and warmth, noting his admiration for the Shantymen’s dedication and playfully referencing Musical Director Brian Farrow with the classic line from the Python film ’The Life of Brian’, “He’s not the messiah, he’s a very naughty boy!”
After the intermission Shantymen Chairman Bob Hawkins presented cheques each for £2,250 to Sheringham and Cromer RNLI. Conveniently, the Lifeboat Operations Managers (LOMs) for both lifeboat stations are themselves Shantymen members: Brian Farrow for Sheringham and John Redmond for Cromer. Mr Redmond, receiving Cromer’s cheque, expressed his gratitude, saying, “Cromer Lifeboat Station is grateful for the continued yearly support from the Sheringham Shantymen. It’s wonderful they continue their long tradition of generating funds for Cromer and Sheringham lifeboats, especially in the 200th anniversary year of the RNLI.”
True to tradition, the Shantymen also debuted a music video for their song Little Lize, which was met with enthusiastic applause, leading to a double encore demand from the audience at the close of the two hour show.
Reflecting on the night, Musical Director Brian Farrow said, “We absolutely love performing to this wonderful crowd at the Cromer Pier Pavilion Theatre each November. To be able to raise £4,500 for the RNLI, a charity so close to our hearts, is only possible thanks to the people who buy tickets and continue to support us and the RNLI with such dedication. We thank each and every one of them.”
The evening was a testament to the Shantymen’s enduring support for the RNLI, and the legacy they proudly carry forward, ensuring that the lifeboat stations in Sheringham and Cromer can continue their vital work in the community.
Images courtesy of Leanne McColm
