Unforgettable Mansarda Night

The last Mansarda night was a pleasure to be a part of. It was my first and I’m sure it won’t be my last. From the start, people the room buzzed with anticipation. Guest were trickling in, picking out people then didn’t know would be there and calling hellos and waves across the room. Bottles of wine and tiramisu passing around and the excited chatter of catching up on news.

Soon it became clear that we had more than sold out and extra chairs were being passed across to make an extra row or two to accommodate the overcapacity walk-ins. Until we were officially declared sold out and a few disappointed stragglers were told there was no more space.

The night started with Malini Agrahar, an Indian lady, who performed stories through dance. Her whole body came alive with angles and signs and face expressions regaling us with strange stories that we had to partially invent in our imaginations. Her poise and focus and presence had us all glued to her for the first half hour.

Next, was ‘The Tenters’ a five-piece jazz band. With their tight, smooth swing jazz, they transported us straight to a smoky New York club. The silhouette of the violinist arched dramatically over the band, a striking visual against the low stage lights.
Then myself, Evin and Paul were up. I was very nervous to say the least. It was just lovely though. The audience were warm, responsive – making us feel right at home. The half hour flew by!

The combination of music, community, and generosity (all the proceeds went to a Emergency NGO and to support the Arts) made this a night to remember. Since, I’ve felt encouraged to keep playing and sharing.
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Thanks so much to Ligia for organising and supporting ! Here’s to many more nights like this!

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About the author:

Elaine O Dea has been singing since she was 10 years old.
8 years of classical voice training, some time as part of a jazz band and other groupings of blues and folk music.
She has been running the Upstairs Sessions for the past 6 years which gathers musicians and singers and performers together.