In 1974 John Betjeman, the Poet Laureate, became an unlikely pop star, recording his verse to music by Jim Parker for the album Banana Blush. It became a cult classic, treasured by many musicians including Jarvis Cocker and ‘Suggs’ from Madness.

In this very special 50th anniversary celebration, Zeb Soanes performs Betjeman’s much loved verse, accompanied by the dazzling virtuosity of the Chris Warner Ensemble, transporting the audience from 20’s cocktail party to village bandstand in a hour of toe-tapping delight — telling the story of this unique collaboration along the way.

Jim Parker’s music will be instantly familiar from countless memorable TV series: House of Cards, Foyles War, The House of Elliot, Mapp and Lucia and Midsomer Murders. He won the BAFTA for Best Original Television Music four times.

Jim lovingly recreated his original Banana Blush score (much of which had been lost over the years) for these special live performances.

John Betjeman (1906-1984) lived at The Mead in Wantage from 1951 until he moved back to London in 1972. His book of Collected Poems was first published in 1958 and was a best seller. He was Knighted in 1969 and became Poet Laureate in 1972.  There is a bust of Betjeman outside the Wantage Museum by Martin Jennings who sculpted the much loved statue at St Pancras. Station.

Zeb was presented with the Betjeman Society Award by Chairman of the Society Steve Jackson for making a significant contribution to the understanding and enjoyment of the life and work of Sir John Betjeman.

The show has played to sell-out audiences in Malmesbury Abbey, Bury St Edmund’s Cathedral and Charterhouse and St James Church Garlickhythe in London and now we have the opportunity to see it in Wantage!