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Definitely the warmest evening so far in the Drama Studio at Henley College.

The audience took their seats and were welcomed at 6:15 p.m. by Richard Rodway. “We’ve always tried to give a platform for up and coming artists, and tonight is no exception” he said. “Remember where you heard his name and saw him first” and then he introduced college student Jo Ryder.

Jo performer a number of his own compositions as well a covers or Oasis’ “Liver Forever” and “Don’t Look Back In Anger”, Bruce Springsteen’s “Dancing in the Dark” and the Beatles “In My Life”. He commented that his music teacher is friends with one of his heroes James Bay, and how it was an honour to have one of his own songs sent to James, and knowing he’s heard it.

Joe is in his second year or an UAL Extended Diploma Music Performance & Production at the college and said after the show "I’ve always had a passion and love for music, and have been playing the guitar and singing since I was 11. In more recent years, I have started writing my own material, and I am also part of a band called Bad Neighbours. I hope to study music beyond college and really look forward to what the future holds." Joe had to rush off after the show as he is performing in this year’s production of Evita at the College, which runs daily through to and including Saturday 17^th December. Tickets are available from the college.

Richard Rodway then presided over the raffle draw with Rhian Mason from the college. The cause for the evening was “Henley Youth Festival” and Richard said it was important to support grassroots local performing arts, if only to ensure the next generation of Living Advent performers!