Illustration © James Mayhew

In 1974 John Betjeman, the Poet Laureate, became an unlikely pop star, recording his verse to music by Jim Parker for the album Banana Blush. It became a cult classic, treasured by many musicians including Jarvis Cocker and ‘Suggs’ from Madness.

In this very special 50th anniversary celebration, Zeb Soanes performs Betjeman’s much loved verse, accompanied by the dazzling virtuosity of the Chris Warner Ensemble, transporting the audience from 20’s cocktail party to village bandstand in a hour of toe-tapping delight — telling the story of this unique collaboration along the way.

Jim Parker’s music will be instantly familiar from countless memorable TV series: House of Cards, Foyles War, The House of Elliot, Mapp and Lucia and Midsomer Murders. He won the BAFTA for Best Original Television Music four times.

Jim lovingly recreated his original Banana Blush score (much of which had been lost over the years) for these special live performances.

Banana Blush Jim Parker (arr. Chris Warner)

Zeb Soanes Reciter

The Chris Warner Ensemble

TICKETS

£25 — General Seating

£30 — Premium Seating (first four rows)

Photos of the Banana Blush 50th anniversary celebration at The Charterhouse in London, April 2024

Zeb and Jim, at his home in Barnes, looking over what remained of the original score that Jim restored.

Jim’s pencil notes for Betjeman from the original recording score for Banana Blush

Listen to the original 1974 album of Banana Blush (skip forward to hear each track)