The 25th Anniversary of The Gathering!!!!!!
Over three days, friends came from all corners of the globe to celebrate the music of Mike Peters & The Alarm and to celebrate 25 years of this long standing event.
Friday’s event saw the welcome return of Dave Sharp who opened the show and thrilled the audience with cuts from his extensive catalogue of songs.
The Friday show saw a surprise change to the usual acoustic set with Mike being joined on stage by Smiley, James Stevenson and Jules Peters to premiere songs from the forthcoming BLOOD RED / VIRAL BLACK albums, and a selection of Mike Peters and The Alarm standards.
Saturday saw the premiere of the concert film from last year’s Gathering – shot and edited by local students. This was followed by the annual Mastermind, suitably tough for a 25th Anniversary. Mike Peters then had one hour to answer questions from those present.
Saturday evening was kicked off by the next generation when OCD took to the stage followed by special guest Ian McNabb …. a great start to what was to be a memorable night which left everyone in no doubt that The Gathering 25 was the best yet!
Sunday was the official launch of Love Hope Strength 10th Anniversary year and the official launch of BY YOUR SIDE WALK. The day started with an emotionally charged talk from Mike’s lifelong friend Kevin Davies, who recently became a life saving donor through LHS followed by a version of Walk Forever that left not a dry eye in the room. Mike Peters then led the crowds on the annual walk to the end of the pier for a resounding rendition of Love Hope Strength.
Three days of music…. Not one song repeated!!!!
The event was filmed throughout by the BBC for later transmission and hopefully they will have captured a world record of card throwing!
Our grateful thanks goes to Stuart Ling for his tireless work capturing the weekend and to Andy Labrow and Dr Ian for additional photography.
Thursday – Smileys Pre-Gathering Party
Friday – Evening Show
Saturday Daytime – Mastermind, Interview with Mike Peters and Soundcheck
Saturday – Evening Show / Aftershow
Sunday – Walkathon and Signing Session