Star-studded concert boosts Britten as a boy statue appeal

Organised as part of an ongoing appeal to raise funds to install a statue of Benjamin Britten, as a boy, looking out over the sea that inspired his music in his birth town of Lowestoft, the glittering gala raised £20,000.

Benjamin Britten Picture: PA Archives (Image: PA Archives)

In April last year, a community project was unveiled with the aim of raising funds to have the statue installed just yards away from where the world famous composer, conductor and pianist was born.

And on Friday, Wigmore Hall in London was filled for "a spectacular gala" that supported the statue appeal.

Zeb Soanes at the gala concert. Picture: Matthew Johnson Photography (Image: Matthew Johnson Photography)

Hosted by Lowestoft-born broadcaster and children's author Zeb Soanes - who is the part of a team of passionate locals that form the Britten as a Boy statue committee - the gala was attended by members of Britten’s family.

With around £110,000 needed to be raised for the sculpture, Mr Soanes said: "The gala was supported by Dame Janet Baker, Sir Thomas Allen, Alistair McGowan, Tasmin Little and was attended by many people who made the trip down from Lowestoft.

Britannia Singers. Picture: Matthew Johnson Photography (Image: Matthew Johnson Photography)

"The concert was opened by the children of Britannia Primary School in Ipswich who came by coach to make their debut singing on a West End stage, performing Britten’s Fishing Song."

Paying tribute to Britten, Sir Thomas Allen said: "This evening is by way of marking his genius once more, this time with something beautiful, something tangible, a gift to honour his memory and his amazing musical legacy in the town in which he was born."

Sir Thomas Allen. Picture: Matthew Johnson Photography (Image: Matthew Johnson Photography)

The programme featured vocal and instrumental music by Britten and the composers he revered, as well as musical performances from many artists.

Zeb Soanes, giving thanks at the gala reception. Picture: Matthew Johnson Photography (Image: Matthew Johnson Photography)

With the concert followed by a champagne reception in the Wigmore Hall restaurant, Mr Soanes said: "The gala has added more than £20,000 towards the Britten as a Boy statue."

Zeb Soanes and performers at the gala concert. Picture: Matthew Johnson Photography (Image: Matthew Johnson Photography)

On Saturday, November 25 a fundraising concert entitled What Bliss is Home will boost the campaign as it's staged at the Lowestoft Players’ theatre.

Visit this website for details.