Gilded hand

The Gilded Hand

Raising the ‘Gilded Hand’ on the Stade on 17 August,  the first ever Gilded Hand Buskers Fair is released, a day-long celebration of the busker and the troubadour.  The Gilded Hand is an ancient sign of freedom of speech and gave performers the right to perform in medieval squares without fear of arrest. So whilst the hand is raised, come and join us in the Stade to hear a variety of performers on several pitches, writes John Knowles.

There will be music from of up and coming local talent, street stalwarts and acts from around the UK.  In the time honoured tradition, performers will be playing for a ‘Hat’ so please bring money along to pay them, help support street busking and lets make The Gilded Hand a new, annual event.

Performing on the day will be Ukulele Dave, Steve the Squeeze, Danii, Amber, The Ingrid Pitt Orchestra and the  legendary multi-voiced Nicola Mitchell. Headlining will be the travelling troubadour Rory McLeod.

Rory McLeod

Ex-fire-eater, circus clown and street busker of the year (Edinburgh 1985), Rory McLeod is a charismatic storyteller and songwriter, tripping passionately through his autobiographical tales of: travel, love, circus nights, kisses with London girls, camp-fires and friendships. If you have ever found yourself whilst lost in the flicker of flames, in a wood fern-wrapped and fox scented, then Rory McLeod is a spiritual essence of that moment. His harmonica playing is second to none, wild exuberant and full of dazzling twists.

There is no pomp and circumstance with Rory, a man of the people, he is probably happier amongst the crowd than on the stage and if the Stade authorities would have let us, we would have built a fire for you all to sit around, as it is, we will have the glow of Rory’s magical words, foot-stompin rhythms and harmonica delights to bathe in, so you’ll have to bring your own internal flames.

The Gilded Hand Busker Fair – 1pm – 7.30pm The Stade – Hastings. 17 August 2013 Rory  McLeod 7.30pm FREE

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