The choir sang first in Abingdon Market Place but had more impact when they perfomed the same song “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” and disrupted the shopping experience for 2 minutes at Waitrose Abingdon where I think they were asked to leave. This was part of the Big Sing that kicks of the Abingdon Arts Festival. Money raised from the Big Sing goes to Christian Aid.
(if the video does not work on the blog just press the youtube image bottom right to watch on youtube.)
I took part today along with my Mum Glenda Roberts who came for the weekend from North Wales just to be part of it. It was fantastic fun and we would love to take part again any time.
Karen Fysh
I’ve seen a number of flash mobs singing, including my son leading his choir in one in Auckland New Zealand (thank you Youtube). I have never heard of a flash mob being asked to leave. Waitrose seems to have an ‘artistically challenged’ manager.
maybe if they had asked the manager permission first – it’s only good manners.
Love it, especially the “non-reaction” of some of the shoppers!
With the greatest respect to the stalwart choir members, this has to be the least impressive flash mob I’ve ever seen, especially versus the 1 million views of the Denver Airport Flash Mob, generously included as a “related” video.
i have to agree it is a some what lack luster attempt, maybe a little bit more planning next time, and from speaking to one of the managers at waitrose, i believe that permission was granted for the event to happen outside, not inside the shop. i don’t think many shops would let people block up the entrance to their shop for to long
I took part in one last year in the states. It took about 3 months of rehearsals and planning, including all the positioning and movement in the mall. It was brilliant. This looked, I’m sorry to those who tried, a bit of an embarrassment!
I think some of the people on here are missing the point of the whole thing, it was meant as a bit of fun & not a professional performance. I was shopping at the time & it didnt disrupt the shop that much & as for blocking the entrance to the shop I have seen much worse crowds in store before bank holidays etc!
As one of those who took part it WAS only meant as fun and had minimal preparation. We were fully expecting to be asked to leave but the manager was smiling and said it was only because of the space issue. It gave them publicity so they should be grateful!
..it wasn’t the reason for the event, but it should be noted that Waitrose have refused permision for our Christian Aid group to sing carols outside there, even for an hour during December. (Perhaps it spoils the spirit of Christmas, thinking of the world’s poorest!?)…
I have witnesses lots of groups singing or playing for Charity causes outside and inside Waitrose John, so perhaps there was another obstacle in the way? Maybe they will let your group have your turn this year?