On Thursday 13th April 2023, something very special happened in the Courtyard on Freeman Street Market. After the lovely café closed for the day, the East Marsh United team stepped in to transform the Courtyard into a performance venue for the Quills Writing Group to launch their very first book.
One by one, the writers arrived and watched nervously as the audience grew, all clutch a copy of their book.
Rick Emsley, local singer-songwriter opened the night and wowed the crowd with his talent and humour. He instantly had the audience singing, laughing, and wanting more.
Then came the main event. Core members since 2019: Pat Moughton, Paul Haddock, Ines Aschkowski and Kelly McLaughlin were joined by former member Caroline Beeson-Spence, each one reading out extracts from their book. Their stories and poems rang out, pulling on the audience’s emotions with their words which reflect the laughter and tears we’ve shared over the last four years.
Steve Barrett couldn’t be there, but Paul did a terrific job reading his poem and Steve was with us in spirit.
Lisa February MC’d with her usual style and energy, making sure the whole show ran smoothly. Sue Baker and Josie Moon slid back the window of the Sun and Moon room to create a bar and served the wonderful audience.
Huge congratulations to the Quills on their well-deserved success and thank you to the East Marsh Team for making the evening happen.
A great night was had by all.
(Credit main picture: Gordon Wilson)
