by Tim Nuttall
Withernsea Methodist Church’s monthly Food, Friendship and Fun session returns next Thursday, June 26, with a performance from purveyor of rhythm and rhyme, Mike Smith.
After a successful debut appearance at the church in September 2023, where he impressed the audience with his thought-provoking, humorous and entertaining look at the world through poetry and song, Mike has been invited back by popular demand on a number of occasions.
For the Howden-based performer, whose act combines poetry with stories and songs, his appearances in Withernsea always provide a welcome return to his performing roots.
Mike said: “My first singing group, Quarto, was formed in Withernsea more than 45 years ago. We performed to a wide range of unsuspecting audiences until 2022 when we finally had to disband for health reasons.”
As a solo performer, Mike has 20 years’ experience under his belt with his With a Laugh and the Sing of a Song show – a self-styled original form of entertainment that, in the words of its creator, “defies description – but the key word is ‘entertainment!’”
Looking forward to Mike’s return next week, church leadership member Gordon Beastall said: “I first met Mike as a colleague in the 1970s when we both taught at Withernsea High School. In later years, we performed together as members of Quarto with two other former teachers – Frank Elliott and Paul May. As a solo performer, Mike’s set always includes a variety of topics and a lively mix of stories which provide the background to the poems that follow. We are very much looking forward to welcoming him back.”
Food, Friendship and Fun sessions take place between 11am and 2pm on the last Thursday of each month. They offer entertainment alongside a simple lunch of soup and a bread roll, followed by a selection of homemade buns. While the food is free, an opportunity to leave donations is offered.
The events take place in the Community Room at Withernsea Methodist Church, located on Hull Road. The room is wheelchair-friendly, with the venue also featuring an accessible toilet to ensure inclusivity for all. Access to the Community Room is via the footpath at the left side of the church, which will be signposted on event days.
Local artist and performer Larry Malkin will be the event’s guest on July 31. The former headteacher and current chairman of East Riding Artists will be painting, telling stories and singing a selection of songs during a much-anticipated appearance. He will be followed by singer Rebecca Ivy on August 28, while Morning Dew Folk will provide the entertainment on September 26.
Gordon added: “We remain thankful for the support of our regular guests, the performers who offer their time and talents to entertain us, and the volunteers who work tirelessly to make each event a success. From the preparation of meals to the delivery of food to tables, a lot of work goes into each session and we are delighted with their continuing popularity.”