Hollywood actress Hazel D’Jan visits the festival
Written by Simon Golding Sunday, 26 September 2010
The bank holiday Monday welcomed Acoustic Music on the Quayside and the laidback mood fitted the artists. It was very relaxed and people gathered around the beautiful natural amphitheatre of Bridgnorth’s quayside in Low Town. The marquee was modest compared to the high street, which was a perfect setting for the acoustic talent that paraded in front of a very appreciative audience. The vista was stunning as the artists sung, plucked, blew and strummed there way though many of their own songs, the beautiful river Severn backdrop murmuring away in perfect harmony.
It was a special treat for me as a few weeks before I had been contacted by the beautiful Hollywood starlet actress/writer/producer Hazel D’Jan, whose parents lived quite near to the area, offered to meet me at Parlors Hall just before the Quayside event started up.
Any nerves I had about meeting this new up-and-coming star, who had several blockbuster movies in-production – including her latest, a $40 Million epic, alongside Val Kilmer, and another with Wesley Snipes, were quickly dispelled by a charming smile and calming manner.
Hazel oozed charisma, exquisiteness and intelligence like all great actors do. After the actress very kindly handed over a couple of stunning signed photos from her soon-to-be-released movies, to help raise money for our charities, we set off towards the distant music.
The sun was on its best behaviour and slipped from behind a cloud as Hazel and I strolled over the bridge, chatting about everything and nothing, towards the quayside playing area.
The band Flat Stanley were in full flow, their haunting sounds drifting over the river towards us. Hazel had agreed to do an interview for The Valley Radio, Bridgnorth, and as if on-cue Tony Russell had taken centre stage, performing a brilliant solo Flamenco guitar set – providing a fitting background score. Mark Williams, MC for the whole festival and as many amazing hats as days in the week, usual easy manner made for a charming and informative over-view of the actress. A short photo shoot followed by festival photographer, Chris Rollason, who had no problem at all capturing the awe and beauty of this talented actress. Afterwards Hazel happily chatted to audience, artists and crew before being swept away for an important meeting in London.
Hazel D’Jan, who I’m sure will become a household name in the very near future, is very supportive of our festival and we are looking forward to her involvement in 2011.
