‘Let Me Sing And I'm Happy’ - the title
of one of Al Jolson’s songs - is very appropriate for
entertainer Paul Henry, seen here at the Garrison
Chapel, Pembroke Dock. Paul will be performing at the
Pembroke Dock Forties Weekend and the eagerly awaited
Forties Dance. With him is John Evans, of the Sunderland
Trust.
Songs and stars from the Fabulous Forties will be
reincarnated next month as Pembroke Dock swings down
memory lane.
The Sunderland Trust is staging another ‘Forties
Weekend’ centred on the restored Garrison Chapel, plus a
Forties Dance, and entertainer Paul Kelly will be in top
voice as he and friends recreate some of the famous
musical characters of the wartime period.
Milford Haven-based Paul - stage name Paul Henry - will
be singing some of his all-time favourites which 70
years on are still so familiar.
“I adore the music, swing and dance of that period,”
said Paul, who has been entertaining audiences for over
30 years. “I will be performing as Al Jolson - one of my
heroes - George Formby and with a friend as Flanagan and
Allen, as well as other popular songs.”
Paul, a former holiday camp ‘Bluecoat’, will be taking
part in the three-day Forties Weekend, 2nd - 4th
September, and in the Forties Dance on Saturday 10th
September.
“The Garrison Chapel is a fabulous venue and this will
be a new highlight for me. I’ve sung in many locations
but never in a superb building like this,” he added.
The Sunderland Trust, which runs the town’s very popular
Flying Boat Centre, is organising the Forties events and
again anticipates huge support from local people and
visitors. The Weekend coincides with the ‘Open Doors’
programme promoted throughout Wales.
“Last year thousands of people flocked to the Chapel and
we will again have many displays from organisations as
well as vintage vehicles and re-enactors,” said the
Trust’s Judith Davies. “The Home Guard re-enactors, so
popular last year, are returning for the Saturday and
Sunday.
“As part of the theme, a ‘Blitz Bazaar’ will be staged
on Saturday 3rd at the Pater Hall and many charities and
groups will have stalls there.”
The Forties events are supported by Milford Haven Port
Authority, Pembrokeshire County Council, Bluestone
Resorts and local businesses. Tickets for the Forties
Dance are available at Adept Dry Cleaners and The
Kitchenmonger, Pembroke Dock, and Pembroke Bookshop, or
by calling 01646 623425.
PICTURE: Martin Cavaney Photography.
From: John Evans, Pembroke Dock Sunderland Trust, 01646
623425.
