I was commissioned by Medway Council to photograph the 2015 annual Rochester Castle Concerts. I had a media pass for the week, which gave me access to the photographer’s pit where my photographs were to be used in promotional material online and in print publications. I photographed winner of The Voice 2014 Jermaine Jackman, Blue and Pete Andre on the Thursday, and an 80s spectacular on the Friday with a set by Radio One DJ Sara Cox and live performances by Bucks Fizz and Billy Ocean. The final evening, Saturday, saw the Proms take place, with the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra and performances by Jonathan Antoine and Laura Wright. It was an incredible experience to be in the photographer’s pit alongside professional photographers working for magazines and newspapers. We photographed each act for the first three songs, which allowed us then to wander round the castle grounds and take crowd shots.
A spectacular summer Looking back on Castle Concerts A night out to remember with Blue and Peter Andre • Jermain Jackman opened the show and blew the crowd away with his powerful voice. • Blue had the audience singing along as they performed a mixture of old and new songs. • Peter Andre and his jazz band had everyone dancing.
Autumn roundup Will Adams Festival Celebrate the life and legacy of Gillingham-born seaman, Will Adams, who ended his days in 17th century Japan. Experience Tudor living history activities as well as both traditional and contemporary Japanese culture in this fun day out for all the family. Saturday, 12 September, 11am – 4.30pm Gillingham Park
80s party night • Host Sara Cox set the tone and kept the party atmosphere alive. • Bucks Fizz whipped off their skirts and belted out songs from the 80s. • Smooth showman Billy Ocean wowed everyone and left the stage to a rapturous ovation.
Flag waving at the Proms • Comedic quartet Graffiti Classics started the night off superbly. • The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Hertfordshire Chorus had the entire crowd singing along and waving their flags. • The voices of soprano Laura Wright and tenor Jonathan Antoine were truly stunning.
Status Quo Unfortunately, Rick Parfitt was taken ill and the show had to be cancelled. We wish Rick a speedy recovery. The Status Quo concert will be rescheduled for Wednesday, 13 July 2016. Valid tickets for Wednesday 15, July can be refunded or exchanged for the 2016 show by calling the Box Office on 01634 338338.
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The Capstone Festival A celebration of outdoor pursuits Take part in a host of activities and displays showing aspects of life on a farm and countryside experiences, as well as recreational fun, from bike riding to kite flying. Sunday, 20 September, 11am – 4pm Capstone Farm Country Park
Bonfire night display Be part of Medway’s annual bonfire night. The event wows thousands every year and is a great way for families to safely celebrate the occasion. Saturday, 7 November, 7pm Great Lines Heritage Park, Gillingham
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IN THE PRESS This spread was featured in Medway Matters, a resident 32 page magazine for Medway Council with over 120,000 copies printed and is delivered to every home in Medway. Some of my photographs have also been used in further publications for Medway Council and in a presentation by the Director for Regeneration.
Several of my photographs have also been used on the website: thecastleconcerts.co.uk