Presidents Message:-
Dear Promenaders
The members of Wynberg Rotary Club have much pleasure in welcoming you all to this, the 27th. Year, that we have produced what has become an institution in Cape Town, namely the “Last Night of the Proms”. My Club uses these concerts as fundraisers in its endeavours to assist many needy people and causes.
This year’s show has been named “Proms with a Bang”. It is exactly 200 years since the defence of Moscow against Napoleon’s army at the Battle of Borodino in 1812. Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky subsequently composed the now famous 1812 Overture in commemoration of the event and this will be the highlight of tonight’s show.
What is Proms about? Largely, light classical music with the emphasis on fun. Conductor Richard Cock “makes” the show in all senses of the word, not only with his charisma on the stage but also from assembling an orchestra to preparing the programme. He is supported by his team of musicians, up and coming opera singers and the very vocal local choirs. Then there is the committee of Rotarians, led by Graham Todd, who are supported by our Rotarians, their partners, our Rotaract and Interact Clubs and so many well-wishers, who work tirelessly to handle the overall management and running of the event.
And at the end of the day what do we hope to achieve? Smiles on your faces as you leave the venue vowing to return next year and money in the bank which, once the sums have been done, will enable us to give a big cheque to our beneficiary, which this year will be St. Luke’s Hospice. They give such wonderful service to the terminally ill. You have assisted by your presence here tonight, for which I thank you, but my club can only raise so much funding. Why not consider a donation to St. Luke’s or volunteer to assist them for an hour or ten a week.
The lights are about to dim, so sit back and let’s get on with the show.
String Smith
President, Rotary Club of Wynberg
