In the last issue of this jam-packed free community magazine we praised the Herculean efforts of Arabella, a local lady who has gained legendary status due to her work putting on events for all the town to enjoy.
The events go under the name A Rye Good Time and Arabella confesses “It’s a labour of love. The Rye community likes to go out. A lot! There is huge support locally for a packed calendar of events and it’s an added blessing to have so many accomplished artists, musicians, writers, actors, directors, producers, film makers, designers and event organisers to call upon. It is easy to feel inspired when you have all that creativity in one place”.
Arabella’s own background is a creative one; as a former Head of Drama, she has a passion for inclusivity and to be creative in the events that Rye is blessed with. “I love working alongside other creative individuals to open up opportunities, especially for people who may not necessarily have a voice or a platform to showcase themselves”.
Last year’s Rye Good Window Wanderland was such a stonking success that it shall return later in the year, Arabella lists many people who deserve thanks as well as her good self, in James Tomlinson, Richard Adams, Mike Stott. These and many others helped bring something positive to the town in such a dark and depressing time.
How crucial are volunteers to the events? Or core friends in your case?
I simply couldn’t have done it without them. Adams of Rye always support the printing, and Ethel Loves Me consistently volunteers to help wherever needed. There are so many individuals and businesses across Rye that help and offer their time freely and I’m grateful. From the shops, eateries, bars and businesses who display posters and flyers, to the people who share social media posts, to all the residents who talk to others about what’s going on, it is evident that the community in Rye give their energy because they want to see the town thrive and succeed. Every little helps and residents taking the time to put a poster up in their window is all part of the wonderful community spirit.
I also feel incredibly lucky to have a core group who have been there on A Rye Good Time’s journey from the outset and who always offer their help: illustrator and writer, Oliver Brooks, Visual Arts Performer, Alexander Hunt and retired fundraiser and broadcaster, Patricia Driver.
If readers are considering volunteering why should they and how can they do so?
It’s a case of lending your individual skills to benefit everybody. For example, graphic designer Mark Baker is raring to go with some design ideas, Richard Hutley, the Lazy Baker, adds fabulous flavours to ARGT events and Lisa Drinkwater at the Kings Head Inn is a very valuable resource for all things hospitality-related.
As the A Rye Good Time events grow volunteers will be very much welcome, so if anyone wants to come and have A RYE GOOD TIME, they can email me at [email protected] or message me via social media on Instagram and Facebook.
Anything else you would like to add at all?
I haven’t named everyone who has supported me here, because it would take a very long time indeed but I’m so grateful and will work hard to return that support by promoting our beautiful town.
Keep sharing and keep supporting each other. And of course, ALWAYS have A Rye Good Time!