Unplugged at the cornerHOUSE

That was the treat awaiting audiences of Unplugged at the cornerHOUSE, part of Kingston's recent Festival of the Voice, a borough-wide celebration of vocal talent.

The event at the arts centre in Douglas Road, Tolworth, was hosted by the charismatic Nick Poole of Teddington's Rhythm and Muse club who introduced the various acts from the more experienced singer-songwriter Aaron Norton and the versatile Hannah Rose Tristram who played the accordion, ukelele and flute, to the up-and-coming guitarist Mike Burnett and duo Jonathan Curzon and Enoque Adolfo.

Other highlights were Rosie Sleightholme’s carefully controlled vocals and skilful guitar playing that brought a quiet hush and a sense of peace and calm to the auditorium, while the equally superb Lewis Greenslade, who with two other members of his band We All Stare at the Moon, offered a short and sweet acoustic set full of energy and wit.

The evening showcased other acts of great talent, with music which spanned many different cultures and genres and put a smile on everyone’s face.

The energy of the stage was transferred directly to the audience, and by the end of the night everyone was up dancing to Norton's encore of Runaround Sue.

The combination of the great host and a wide range of complementary styles of music made for an uplifting and hugely enjoyable night. The whole audience was disappointed when the evening had to end.

Each individual, duo and band delivered an accomplished performance and they are to be congratulated on creating such a great show.

We are definitely looking forward to more of the same at this very special venue that is the cornerHOUSE.

Rachel Nicolson and Anna Clarke