‘The Lost Will & Testament of Jake Thackray’

The late Jake Thackray is being increasingly acknowledged as one of the greatest English songwriters of the twentieth century, a unique talent, whose songs are full of poetry, wit, irreverence and humanity.

This evening of hilarious and heartfelt celebration of the life and songs of one of this country’s finest and funniest wordsmiths, will be highly entertaining, whether you are discovering Jake for the first time, or an ardent fan.

John Watterson is the UK’s leading performer of Jake’s songs. As Fake Thackray he has toured with Fairport

Convention and performed at Latitude, Cropredy and at Edinburgh Fringe festivals. He has also played for Jake’s family and appeared on Radio 4’s Great Lives. For the past three years John has been researching to write the first biography on Thackray.. In the course of this research, John has uncovered 15 wonderful songs written by Jake but never released - some have lain forgotten in the BBC archives for decades, others found in Jake’s personal papers haven’t ever been heard. These songs, along with never-before told stories from the biography research, plus several much-loved Jake classics, feature in John’s new show.

 “It is marvellous that Jake's treasured songs ride again through John's superb performance”   Ralph McTell

“We can't have Jake back but this is the next best thing. Brilliant!’  Mike Harding

“I am sure Jake would be delighted  Jasper Carrott

“Long may John continue to keep Jake’s memory alive so affectionately and skilfully, and introduce more people to one of the most remarkable talents I ever met.” 

Sir Richard Stilgoe