Readers may remember how excited Spangles members were with the beautiful capes, donated by sponsors, when they found out they were going to Prague in the Czech Republic for a major competition.
On Thursday, 7 November, they duly arrived after a long journey and were greeted at the airport by guide, Klara.
Friday gave members free time to explore some of this lovely city before joining several other choirs, for a public concert in the evening, in the beautiful Jan Huss church in Dejvice.
Saturday was competition day, held in the illustrious surroundings of Martinú Hall, now used as a music academy within the beautiful Lichtenstein Palace. After a long but very enjoyable day, competing against some excellent choirs, everyone sat in the concert hall as the prize winners were announced.
Spangles members jumped for joy as they were announced as bronze winners in their category! Musical Director, Barbara Burks, went on stage to receive the award as Spangles members whooped and clapped. “I am so proud of every single member of Spangles” she said. “Everyone has worked so hard for this moment, including the ones who were unable to make the trip with us.”
Spangles celebrated in style that evening, at a beautiful Italian restaurant not too far from their hotel. Not too late a night out because they needed to be up bright and early Sunday morning! They were going to the famous St Vitus Cathedral to sing at mass and during the service.
Temperatures were very low in Prague, reaching a crisp -1 on Sunday morning. Inside the cathedral, it was -2! However, Spangles were warmed by the honour of being asked to sing during communion. After mass, Klara took them to a local cafe, where they warmed up even more with some delicious rum and hot chocolate…..
They then made their way to the riverside, where they joined all the other singers for a river cruise and buffet. Lots of beautiful food, singing and laughter made the time fly by and they bid each other farewell.
“It was a well-organised weekend, and we have such beautiful memories that will stay with us forever” said Chorus Manager, Lyn Baines. “An unforgettable trip!.”
Despite the low temperatures, Spangles has local businesses to thank for their sponsorship of the beautiful capes that kept them warm throughout: The Salon, May Dental Clinic and the Gurkha Durbar restaurant. “Those capes were so cozy and warm. We couldn’t have done without them.” said Lyn.
They have now returned safely to Los Alcázares where they celebrated their win with Antonio Lopez Campoy, Concejal de Cultura, when he thanked them for representing Los Alcázares. They are now preparing for their busy Christmas season and hope to see friends and supporters at the various venues.
Spangles is a ladies’ a cappella chorus, singing in four part harmony. They rehearse every Thursday, from 10.30 am to 1.00 pm at Centro Municipal Las Claras, Calle Helena, Los Narejos, Los Alcázares and visitors are always welcome.
If you’d like to book the chorus for an event or you are thinking about joining them, you can find out more on their website: www.spangleschorus.com or email info@spangleschorus.com
