Congratulations to all the boys, and girls from Bedford Girls’ School, who gave it their all to put on a superb show at this year’s Open Mic Night, held earlier this month to support our Movember campaign.
If you were unable to make it along yourself, do not despair, Upper Sixth Former Will Roberts’ review provides a detailed account of this highlight of the musical calendar for both schools.
“A great night for a great cause, Open Mic Night is always circled in big red pen on my calendar not only for the charitable benefits towards Movember, but also as a great chance for younger students within both Bedford School and Bedford Girls’ School to get up on stage and perform to a warm and encouraging audience. And this night was no different. The Recital Hall was transformed and filled with students and supporting family and peers with the lights dimmed and the sofas out, the scene was set for an exciting night.
Charlie Lawrence kicked off the night with a rendition of Elton John’s Crocodile Rock, Charlie’s first time performing in front of a live audience was a hit and really set a great tone for what the night is all about. Acts such as Ella Bowis, Stephanie West and Alice Toone continued this great start, all featuring from the neighbouring girl school who gave it their all with some cracking renditions of some classic hits.
Toby L’Estrange then brought the sass hyping up the crowd with his take on It’s My Life, one that I’m sure Bon Jovi would be proud of. Special mention must also go to Henry Gillham who gave a beautiful cover of Coldplay’s ‘Trouble’, getting the crowd swaying with their torch lights on, a really moving part of the evening.
Soon it was the turn of Gideon Chan and Harry L’Estrange to take the stage, soon joined by Harry’s brother Toby and Open Mic Night veteran Josh Jeganathan. Gideon and Harry always seem to pick up a crowd and tonight was no different. A series of songs that got the whole room up on their feet giving the night great momentum heading into the final few acts.
Sienna McFarlane shined with her rendition of Back to Black a notoriously tricky song to sing nailed with impressive flair. Funk Band then closed out the more acoustic section of the evening, with many previous acts getting up on stage to perform. Bringing a great and groovy vibe to the party.
Finally, with the Recital Hall now full to the brim. Thomas Li took the stage and became Li Qiller, a debut performance of his original rap Best Times of Life went down a storm. With incredible stage presence and charisma, Li Qiller certainly earned a lot more listeners from his impressive rapping ability showcased to his peers.
DJ Swave wrapped up the evening, with the crowd now bouncing to the music and absent minded of school the next morning, bringing what was a superb evening to an eventful close.”
