A NEW generation of country music fans needs to come forward if a dale club is to continue in the long term.
The Great North Country Music Theatre has been bringing acts to Teesdale for the past 35 years and continues to meet at Glaxo Sports and Social Club on the first Sunday evening of the month.
While support for the club remains strong among its loyal band of followers, organiser Paul Stephenson says that number is dwindling and a younger band of country music fans is needed.
Mr Stephenson took over running the club with wife Nadine from his cousin Charlie Johnstone – one of the original organising committee members – seven years ago.
“We did not want to see it close,” said Mr Stephenson.
“It is called the Great North Country Music Theatre because it is a ‘listening’ club – there is no line dancing.
“We try to put on a variety of acts and have had people come from all over – and abroad.
“It is a lovely room and a friendly atmosphere,” added Mr Stephenson.
He and Nadine continue to perform as a country music duo called Rebel Rose – the day before the club’s latest show they had been gigging in Essex and had driven back north through the night to be in Barney on time.
Mr Stephenson has been performing since 1970 and was joined by Nadine later that decade.
“We have dedicated our lives to it, seen a bit of the world with the music and made a lot of very good friends.
“However, people are dying off and no-one is coming in to replace them. We have an ageing fan base. We have some young ones who love country music, but not enough.”
At the moment, the Great North Country Theatre covers its costs. A non-profit making organisation, any extra money made is ploughed back into bringing good quality artists to the dale.
July will see two-time award winning singer Donna Wilde take to the stage.
“Country music is timeless. Like The Beatles, it will always be there. We are passionate about it. A genuine country music song tells a story. There is no repetition to it. I get quite emotionally involved,” added Mr Stephenson.
His message to those who have never been along to a country music night is simple.
“Just try it once. You will be made more than welcome. If you like music of any sort, try it. We can’t let this go – it’s got to be kept going.”
Mr Stephenson’s words were echoed by June’s guest performers The Thornhills – brothers Arthur and Keith, from Liverpool.
For four decades they toured as part of a country band called West Virginia, whose album The Blue Rendezvous was an award winner.
They arrived in Barney for the last show of a 12-date tour.
“There is still plenty of work for duos and single artists,” said Keith Thornhill.
However, groups find it much more of a struggle to make it pay now.
“The clubs are not there like they used to be,” he said.
The Great North Country Music Theatre meets on the first Sunday evening of the Month at Glaxo Sports and Social Club. Admission is £4 and country music fans do not have to be members of the sports and social club.
