I have always wanted to go to Battle Proms at Blenheim- I had high expectations of the event, and I certainly was not disappointed. This was one of the highlights of the summer!
We were lucky enough to attend this extra special celebration, making the 20th annual Battle Prom at Blenheim. Set amongst the backdrop of this iconic World Heritage site, and very appropriate, Sir Winston Churchill’s birthplace, the atmosphere from the moment of entry was electric.
A drive through the beautiful grounds of the place welcomed us and we found parking with ease just a few minutes’ walk from the main concert area. There were some stalls selling memorabilia including the all-important flags, a few bars for the crucial drinks, and some other food stalls, but I liked the fact it was low key and not overtaken by too many vendors.
Whilst walking around we were treated to replica war vehicles, war tents, trying on vintage outfits, even getting our hair styled into vintage styles! We were able to see the astonishing cavalry and talk to their proud owners. There was a lot of space for gazebos, and even though we arrived quite soon before start time we were able to find a spot close by to the stage for our picnic mat. I was impressed by the number of dining table and chairs that had been put up by party goers. It was a lovely, chilled out atmosphere and no one minded where anyone sat - a very palpable spirit of camaraderie, respect and peace.
The show started with some audience participation which was lovely, and then some swing dancing and live jazz on stage. The Battle Proms Belles sung a range of songs from nostalgic to funny and succeeded in getting the audience into the mood for the evening. The cavalry display was exciting, showcasing a range of horse and fighting displays. We were able to get a good view, going up close to the cavalry area but also from where we were sitting thanks to the giant screens put up. We really liked the swing dancing; my sons and I enjoyed learning and dancing to 'Doing the Lambeth Walk', which was a highlight for us.
A short interval allowed us to buy some ice cream and talk to some of the characters walking around, including a Sir Winston Churchill impersonator, which my son, having just learned about WW2, was delighted about.
Post break, the orchestra began, which was the part I had been looking forward to the most. I was enthralled to see that Tchaikovsky’s '1812 Overture' being played in accompaniment to hundreds of firing cannons! Beethoven’s 'Battle Symphony' was also played alongside the cannons - this was certainly something I had never witnessed and was quite extraordinary. There was a thrilling Spitfire air display accompanied to music from the orchestra, which left us in awe. It was pretty much mind blowing to watch those tricks in accompaniment to the atmospheric and emotion-stirring music.
There were more cannons, and it soon turned dark. Lighting up the night sky, fireworks whizzed through the air and a drone light show danced in the sky with some beautiful designs. The show ended with audience singalongs of 'Rule Britannia' and 'God Save the King', waving the flags in a sea of colour, joy and happiness.
It was an extremely well organised event, it ran very smoothly, and the team should be congratulated on that. The atmosphere was one of love, joy and respect - there were moments where it became sombre appropriately as we solemnly remembered the sacrifices made for our country. 'The White Cliffs of Dover' rendition was a moment to remember; it was very moving.
I was struck at how kind people were, they made way for my little boy to see the displays at the front despite the crowds, someone also lifted him up to see. It felt very uniting, and I was touched by the spirit of what it stands for, patriotism, respect, remembrance and mutual respect, it was evident in everyone. My boys and I had a wonderful time, and I would recommend this to everyone to attend at least once for the experience and joy. We will certainly remember this night for a long time!