21 Club celebrates Christmas in July in style

BEAUTIFULLY decorated Christmas trees made of silver twigs adorned each table as ‘Christmas in July’ was celebrated in style by 21 Club.

The tiny, festive flashing lights enhanced the purple and silver decor to set the scene for a memorable luncheon.

Many thanks to Peggy Brown for the inspiration and for supplying the twigs.

The extreme weather of the preceding week was almost forgotten as the 86 members and guests tucked into another Lords and Legends treat – traditional gammon, roast chicken and trimmings followed by an unusual hot pineapple sponge pudding with cream.

Popular guest speaker was Peter Court who last visited 21 Club at the end of 2012.

Peter was born in Swansea, Wales. He moved to Nigeria with his parents as a toddler. There he discovered puppets which were to have a profound influence on his future in theatre. The family returned to Wales and then, when Peter was 12, they moved to South Africa. Peter returned to the UK to complete his schooling and later obtained a BA honours degree in theatre, art and design at the University of Plymouth.

Fortunately for the club, he returned to South Africa in 1995 where he has lived ever since.

Peter was obviously in his comfort zone, sitting cross-legged on the stage. He talked members through a fascinating slide presentation which told the story of his life in the theatre, a journey which has spanned more than 30 years.

He has received awards for direction, lighting and costume design, best actor and supporting actor. The most prestigious of these being the Fleur de Cap award for his role as Herr Schultz in Cabaret in 2011.

Many thanks to Peter for spending time with 21 Club. Teacher, actor, director, writer, puppeteer and designer of costumes (including the odd matric farewell dress), Peter can well be described in the words of Peter James: “There are people who can achieve huge success in life, while adding a bit of fun and a splash of colour to this increasingly grey world.”

The Woman’s Month luncheon will be held on Wednesday, 24 August. Members are reminded that confirmation of intention to attend or not, and names of guests, must be received by any of these committee members by Friday, 19 August. The numbers are: Lyn on 082-572-1328 or 031-903-4026 or Golda on 083-633-6338 or 031-916-7001. Unfortunately, guests can only be accommodated if there is room and they must be invited by a member.

Decor colours are black, white and silver. Wear a mask which can be any colour.

Guest speakers are Denise from Lashes Laser Beauty Clinic and Catherine from Meticulous Beauty.