Andrew Lumb, Hailsham Choral reviewer, wrote: "Lucky were those who were part of the capacity audience for Hailsham Choral Society’s 60th anniversary performance of Handel’s Messiah on Saturday March 26th at All Saints Church. This was their return to large scale concert giving after two years of lockdowns, and it proved to be an emotionally affecting as well as musically uplifting experience for the choir and the large audience. The evening was further enhanced by a stirring rendition of the Ukrainian National Anthem which brought the audience to their feet with cheering and enthusiastic applause, and a collection for the DEC Ukraine appeal which raised over £1100.
"Following a two year break with only ‘zoom’ rehearsals and voices losing their stamina, all credit then must be given to the society’s conductor Jozik Kotz, who has clearly worked hard to bring the choir back to their former high standard.
"But on the day of the concert itself covid struck again. Jozik had to find a replacement soprano (the excellent Lisa Swayne) as well as two members of the orchestra. Despite all this the conductor, choir, orchestra and soloists should be proud of the spirited and involving performance which they gave. The baritone Greg Skidmore was new to the audience but Rebecca Hughes and Andrew Mackenzie Wicks are both well-known local singers.”
Marion of Hailsham Choral Society, said: "We are truly grateful to Crane & Co Estate Agents for their generous sponsorship and support which enabled us to put on this memorable performance, with professional soloists and orchestra, ensuring our 60th Anniversary was marked in style. The choir look forward to a continuing relationship with Crane & Co in the future."
“I'm absolutely delighted to be supporting Hailsham Choral Society and I really enjoyed the performance - one of my favourite pieces of music. We are over the moon that our support enabled the 60th Anniversary Concert to go ahead and that it was a sell out performance.", said Mike Crane, Owner and Managing Director of Crane & Co,
