At The Drop of Another Hippotpotamus @ Bassenthwaite Parish Room – Arts Out West

8th March 2026 2:30pm (Doors open at 2:00 pm)

Bassenthwaite Parish Room

We first concocted this show for the 2024 “Cockermouth Live!” festival. We find it goes down very well with a typical village hall audience (nostalgia plays its part, though you don’t have to be able to remember Flanders and Swann from first time around in the 1950’s !). You may find you already know the songs as soon as we start singing them.

“AT THE DROP OF ANOTHER HIPPOPOTAMUS” is our celebration of the comic genius of Flanders and Swann and includes the Gnu , the Bedstead Men, the Honeysuckle and the Bindweed , the Reluctant Cannibal, the Gasman Cometh, a Transport of Delight, Slow Train, Ill Wind, The Ostrich and, of course the Hippo sing-along, as well as some not so well known. All linked with light-hearted intros.

Bob Pritchard was artistic director of Arts Out West until retirement and now sings with Dave Camlin’s Wild Chorus choir. Mike Ames is well known locally as a jazz pianist and musical director. We've worked together for 35 years, on and off, but only recently discovered our mutual love of Flanders and Swann, for their brilliant wordplay, inventive musicality and satirical edge. Many of these songs are still very relevant and haven't dated at all.

Please note this show takes place at Bassenthwaite Parish Room.

You can book here or via clairewebzell@gmail.com or by calling 07743893489

BYOB is not allowed.