Warming up Poynings church

It is healthy to be reminded why we do what we do sometimes.  Last night was a prime example of this.  The quiet village of Poynings nestles snugly behind the South Downs, safely shielded from the brashness of Brighton, guarding the lower entrance to Devil's Dyke.  The Maydays were playing in the Village Church as part of their fundraising efforts for some new heating.  The need for this was all too apparent as I sat and watched Rebecca shivering with her entire body as she waiting on the wings.  We were performing our new show, "All about you" which takes anecdotes from the audience and turns them into sketches and songs.  It is a lovely format in an intimate community like Poynings as most people know each other, so te anecdotes are meaningful to all.  However, nobody was expecting the acrimonious break-up of a teanage couple to dominate the evening, with anecdotes from both parties!
The atmosphere was far warmer than the temperature, and we soon warmed to our task, the homemade mulled wine and mince pies keeping the audience alive.  Highlights were surely the death of a clown, foxes against humans and the expensive crisp blues.  On a personal level, the chance to play the church organ for our final Gospel number was a unique experience for me.  Admittedly, the song itself still needs a bit of work, but as for new experiences, that one is hard to beat.  
After the show we were approached by so many members of the village whose friendliness and genuine curiosity in improvisation was heartening and heartfelt.  We found ourselves in the local pub soon afterwards and continued to be chatted to and welcomed into what felt like a close-knit and vibrant community.  
THe discussion amongst the Maydays turned to the value of doing gigs in communities.  It does say something that we had a bigger, more appreciative audience than at some of our Komedia shows in Brighton.  Also, we all left feeling that we had not only entertained the village, but had contributed to their much needed cause also.  Thank you to the wonderful people of Poynings! 
Find out more about what we do at themaydays.co.uk