‘Joy in its purest form’: BFBS puts on dazzling show for Carrier Strike Group sailors
BFBS has put on a sparkling evening of live entertainment for hundreds of UK Carrier Strike Group sailors.
Personnel from HMS Queen Elizabeth, currently docked in Oman, were in the audience for the event.
X-Factor stars, comedians and a cover band performed for personnel who were "laughing and singing their hearts out", BFBS Live Events Manager, Angie Avlianos said.
She added: "After 19 months of pandemic, where live events were impossible, it was wonderful to see hundreds of sailors laughing and singing their hearts out with the backdrop of the QE behind the stage and BFBS beamed onto the side of the ship.
"It was probably one of the best shows we’ve ever delivered, joy in its purest form. We were all quite emotional at the end. I'd do it all over again today if I could!"
The event was fully funded as a result of a generous grant made by trustees of the BFBS charity.
Performers included comedians Maff Brown and Andy Askins, X-Factor star Kevin Davy White and covers band The Dominos.
HMS Queen Elizabeth's band @Sea/DC played a short set and were also a huge hit with the audience.
The Royal Navy's SJ Law, Commander (Logistics), HMS Queen Elizabeth, explained why BFBS Live Events were approached:
"Given their track record of providing quality entertainment to servicemen and women deployed worldwide, we knew that they would be able to deliver something special, and we were right! Angie and the team gave us an evening we’ll never forget, with outstanding comedy from both Maff Brown and Andy Askins, and stunning live music sets from both Kevin Davy White and The Dominos.
"The BFBS Live team even managed to factor in Queen Elizabeth’s very own band, @Sea DC, which is the first opportunity they have had to play as part of a professional line-up with a light and sound system that blew the audience away.
"The work that BFBS Live does is absolutely crucial in terms of boosting morale. We could not be more grateful for the time, effort and funding that went in to our event. It means a lot to us that the work we have done throughout the deployment has been recognised by the wider community – the event will definitely be remembered as one of the genuine highlights of Operation FORTIS.”
"Thanks again – you guys rocked it."
Comedian Maff Brown said: "I've been doing these gigs for over 10 years and this was the best BFBS trip I’ve been on."
X-Factor star Kevin Davy White told us: "Every time I'm performing for BFBS I have a great experience. Amazing memories to keep for life."
Lead singer of The Dominos, Natasha Lusted, said: "This tour has been particularly special, well organised and so much fun! Performing for the military has been a lifelong dream of mine.
"I will always jump at the chance to give back in any way I can, no matter the risk, no matter the distance. Thank you to the entire crew of HMS Queen Elizabeth for your service. You will always have a piece of my heart."
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