Car park concerts and garden gigs by David

David Kelly has been entertaining at care homes in Coleraine and Ballymoney since the lockdown began.

“I have included care homes in my gigs and travels across the UK in the past,” he said. “I knew the staff and residents were really suffering (though it’s only in recent days the magnitude of the problem in the care homes has really come to light). So I came up with a safe proposal and contacted a few homes I’ve played in before. Most gave an enthusiastic yes. Others got word via social media and invited me to come.

“I typically set up in the car park or communal garden if they have one. Sometimes the residents are only able to listen through their bedroom windows, though if the weather’s good sometimes the staff and residents can come outside. The other day I played to elderly folk who hadn’t been outside in 41 days. They were singing and clapping and dancing and smiling. One 92-year-old lady insisted I observe her bend down and touch her toes. She was a real character! “The next day my host messaged: “David we had a ball yesterday, thank you so much. Residents still talking about it today. You’re an absolute star”. Of course THEY are the stars, having to deal with isolation, loneliness, deaths and zero family visits or activities to bring escape and comfort.

“I try to play familiar, upbeat songs so they can sing along and tap their feet. Sometimes the staff gently waltz with the residents and convey requests for particular artists or songs. A typical set contains a mix of country, folk, gospel, wartime songs and favourites like Johnny Cash, Jim Reeves and Elvis...and plenty of banter and anecdotes!

“I have bookings up until May 22 but lots of slots are still available. They all ask me back so I’m trying to work out a circuit with a view to revisiting them all.”

If anyone would like to request one of David’s car park concerts, he can be contacted on 07709600408.

He concluded: “It really makes it very worthwhile when you know you’ve brightened someone’s day!”