Caamora

The Official She Premiere

Artist comments and pictures

Photos by Marta Tluszcz

Clive Nolan (Leo) and Agnieszka Swita (Ayesha)

It was hard to have any idea what to expect from the vast undertaking that was the 'She' project. As time moved on, and more and more complications arose, we were filled with many doubts. Perhaps we should never have worried. The musicians and technicians we brought into Caamora were the perfect choice: all talented and dedicated to getting the best results. We managed to turn an idea into a fantastic reality, and we thank each and every one of you for your contributions. As well as the excellence of our UK team, let us not forget the amazing work from the Polish choir and of course the cellist, oboe player and Horn player! Special thanks must go to Metal Mind for dealing with the thousands of practicalities involved in this production. This was a great triumph, that we can all be proud of!

Alan Reed (Holly)

When Clive first approached me about this project I thought I'd be singing a few songs and possibly the odd duet. I was intrigued about doing something in a different style - and it was certainly that. But before I knew it all these extra "bits" kept appearing and soon it dawned on me I was going to be performing for the best part of two hours doing some of the most intricate and challenging stuff I'd ever attempted. BUT BY THEN IT WAS TOO LATE TO TURN BACK!!!!

So here I am in a rehearsal room in Windsor with more musicians and singers than the room can comfortably fit. Some I know well, some are mere acquaintances, and others I've no idea even what their names are. I suddenly see this huge wall rushing towards me. Are we really going to try and do this? But somehow it starts to shape up. The singers can really sing, and the musos are all top notch and there's a camaraderie in the room that most bands never ever achieve.

Two days later we're in a much larger room in Poland. This is starting to look serious. The band is really starting to gel, but then a choir arrives - and then a Oboist, a Cellist and a French Horn player!! What a noise!! But even with the extra players and the added language barrier the party atmosphere just seems to get more and more intense.

Showtime - I've never done anything on this scale. The scale of the project and logistical support involved is daunting. But there's an audience sitting there waiting and they've got to be entertained. Here we go. And suddenly it all comes together, the awkwardest moments from rehearsals start to make sense and the sheer power of the music takes over.

It's not often in a lifetime that a challenge like this comes along and I for one am glad I was able to take part. I've been stretched musically more than I ever imagined, and I've made friendships for life with people I hardly knew even a week ago. Thank you Clive and Agnieszka.

... And the music's quite good too :-)

Christina Booth (Ustane)

I am still on a high! It was really hard work and at times a bit crazy but i am so glad to have been a part of the project. It really took me out of my 'comfort zone' and meeting and working alongside such a great and talented bunch of musicians has given me a new zest for singing & writing. Hope we can all do it all again sometime in the future (somewhere a bit warmer so Alan can wear his loin cloth without catching pneumonia!). Thanks to everyone involved for leaving me with some great memories. Xxx

Oh my GOD Clive, you did it!

Photos by Marta Tluszcz

Mark Westwood (Guitars)

For me, the highlight of the Caamora experience was getting to meet some extremely nice & outstandingly talented people. Most of who up until five days earlier had never met each other, let alone perform together. Everyone of them doing they're utmost to help insure that the 'She' project, would be as good as we could possibly get it, in the short period of time we had. I also include all the lads & lasses from Poland, most of who I never even got chance to meet. Having been involved in the recording & playing on this album from very early on, I have to admit, there were times when I had my doubts that Clive would ever get the live part of 'She' off the ground, but having known him for such a long time I guess I should of known better.

On a personal not I must thank Clive for having the confidence in me & letting me be part of this outstanding product. I hope you all enjoy this DVD as much as I have enjoyed performing on it.

Martin Bowen (Guitars)

Performing with Caamora in Poland... it was certainly an experience!

When I was first approached to be involved I thought it would be something to get my teeth into, and was not wrong. It was a large chunk of material to learn, and I spend a lot of time working on it. When it came to the first rehearsals I felt confident that I knew it, but there is always the unknown factor of how it would run with a live band instead of working to a CD.

However, the strength of the band was phenomenal. To put together a 10-piece band that did not know each other, and to pull it off was a work of art. The musicians gelled almost straight away, and there was a real feeling that each of us wanted it, we were fired up to make this work. The boundless enthusiasm of Scott drove us perfectly, and each musician built upon this. By the time we started rehearsing in Poland we had really started to cook, and the songs came alive. It was quite wonderful.

The energy we created on show night coupled with the fantastic performance of our vocalists ensured for an amazing production that really worked. Considering this was the first time it had been attempted, and the myriad of logistical and technical issues we all faced, it came together for the performance, and the audience reception was tremendous and moving. Special thanks to Mark Westwood for the days spent in his studio dividing up the guitar parts. It was this that gave me the confidence to know the project would really work.

John Jowitt (Bass)

Tremendous. On a whole range of levels - the size and scale of the undertaking, the work put in by everyone involved, the amount of material the number of musicians, singers and workers at the venue and elsewhere. So different to anything else I've been involved in, and Clive has clearly been working his socks off to make this happen - fair play. But no matter how much preparation is involved, no one knows quite what will happen when the lights go down.

Despite facing two and a half hours of material they'd never heard before in a language many would not readily understand, the audience reaction showed all the efforts had been worth it, and whilst the DVD will no doubt be a must see, I hope we get to do it again sometime, somewhere.

Scott Higham (Drums and Percussion)

"SHE was an incredible life changing experience for me, everyone involved in this genius piece of work from Clive Nolan were part of an amazing team and it was a privilege to work with them."

Steve Williams (Keyboards)

For me, it was a fantastic experience all round. I had never been to Poland before so that was new in itself, but to get the chance to meet and hang out with so many great musicians (some of whom I had never met before) was something really special. Although the days were long, it never seemed that way and although we all had our moments of tiredness I think it was incredible the way everyone bonded together both when working and outside of the work environment. Many friendships have been formed that I hope will last for a long time.

Richard West (Keyboards)

It was a real pleasure to be part of the Caamora project, you couldn't ask for a nicer and more talented group of people to work with. This was a very impressive production and I was proud to be part of it.

Photos by Marta Tluszcz

Tomek (Horn)

It was a very intriguing project, a great combination of both classical and rock influences - definitely something new for me. I really enjoyed all the classical bits and I was surprised with the form and how it managed to capture the specific opera ‘vibe’ very well. I often play the horn in ‘standard’ operas, so I could really spot all the elements of classical arrangements used in ‘She’. Personally I would put even more classical instruments there, but still I think that the project turned out really well. Most of all, I really enjoyed working with such talented singers and musicians - everyone involved in this project were very helpful and we had a great time during the rehearsals and the DVD recording.

Ewaryst (Oboe)

For me it was a totally different work system. Usually we have fully prepared notes, a conductor and definitely more hours of rehearsals for events of such magnitude. Here I had to find another way to prepare for this performance. But still, the excellent musicians, the professionally made backtracks and a really good sound crew (I’ve worked with many sound engineers and I know how difficult it is to get such an act to sound properly) made this experience a truly memorable one. As for the music, I have to be honest - it’s not the kind that I listen to every day. Nevertheless, the mixture of the stronger parts (like in "Storm") with the more mellow, classical ones made a really, REALLY huge impression on me. It’s a shame that my part in all of this was so little – of course, some of the oboe parts I’ve played were really difficult (some of them were a true test of my abilities!) but still I believe I could have done more.

Tomek (Cello)

I think I never took part in such a huge act before - at first I was a bit overwhelmed, I guess. But somehow I managed to overcome the pressure and give my best during the premiere. I must say that I’ll definitely remember this performance for the rest of my life. I loved the overall idea, the story and how it was presented, and I’m really surprised that this project needed two years to emerge – it’s really great. I also enjoyed the libretto - I think I wouldn’t be so satisfied with my performance if it weren’t for the brilliantly written music.

Waldemar Galazka (Choir conductor)

It was a truly inspiring experience for all the choir members, especially since they all had a chance of working with such talented and charismatic artists (especially the drummer...:). The entire choir was really fond of the music they heard - you might even say that some of them became Clive’s fans after that performance. As for the opera itself, we were all fascinated with the final form it took - so different from performances we usually take part in. I think that this form has a lot of potential yet to be discovered. And for us it was a whole new, fascinating experience, since we rarely do any ‘acting’ on stage, even if it was that simple. Needless to say, we are all eager to see the final effect and proud to be a part of it.

Rob Aubrey (Sound)

It was a pleasure meeting you all (again and for the first time!) considering the task that was "SHE" I think we all pulled it off with 150% professionalism and conviction.

There were moments in the show that I from 'front of house' was truly overwhelmed by the performance based on the knowledge that so little rehearsal time together was actually completed. Sure there are things that could have run more smoothly and edits/tweaks that will happen with both the DVD and the show in general but from the school play I saw on the day of the first full rehearsal I honestly felt that given the time an budget of a 'West End' show it could easily rival many of them!

Full credit to Clive and Agnieszka for the vision and full credit to you all for realising the magnitude of what was before you!

Andy Clark (Visuals)

Thanks to all I had a great time working with you, watching the show from out front I felt very proud to be a part of this project. Thanks Caamora for your trust and loyalty in me.

Simon Hill (Driving)

First I have to say the whole Caamora experience has been fantastic and I for one would not have missed it for the world. I can honestly say that I have enjoyed the company of one of the nicest groups of people I have ever had the pleasure of working with. I hope it will be possible to maintain some of the friendships that have begun during the trip - thank you all for letting me be part of it!

Several times before and during the trip I am sure you have heard me say 'never again' - well, never is a long time (as Clive rightly pointed out to me), and if it meant working with a crowd like we had on this trip I'd give the matter serious consideration. Nice one guys!

Chris Allen (Driving)

Thanks to you all for making it such an enjoyable experience, it made the long drive well worth it and very well done to all the musicians and singers, your talent and experience saw you guys through to a stunning performance on the night, Scott you make me proud (every time) and Clive you are a man of vision. Also thanks to Simon for sharing the driving and for being so organized.

Back to Attic


	The Official She Premiere Artist comments and pictures Photos by Marta Tluszcz Clive Nolan (Leo) and Agnieszka Swita (Ayesha) It was hard to have any idea what to expect from the vast undertaking that was the 'She' project. As time moved on, and more and more complications arose, we were filled with many doubts. Perhaps we should never have worried. The musicians and technicians we brought into Caamora were the perfect choice: all talented and dedicated to getting the best results. We managed to turn an idea into a fantastic reality, and we thank each and every one of you for your contributions. As well as the excellence of our UK team, let us not forget the amazing work from the Polish choir and of course the cellist, oboe player and Horn player! Special thanks must go to Metal Mind for dealing with the thousands of practicalities involved in this production. This was a great triumph, that we can all be proud of! Alan Reed (Holly) When Clive first approached me about this project I thought I'd be singing a few songs and possibly the odd duet. I was intrigued about doing something in a different style - and it was certainly that. But before I knew it all these extra "bits" kept appearing and soon it dawned on me I was going to be performing for the best part of two hours doing some of the most intricate and challenging stuff I'd ever attempted. BUT BY THEN IT WAS TOO LATE TO TURN BACK!!!! So here I am in a rehearsal room in Windsor with more musicians and singers than the room can comfortably fit. Some I know well, some are mere acquaintances, and others I've no idea even what their names are. I suddenly see this huge wall rushing towards me. Are we really going to try and do this? But somehow it starts to shape up. The singers can really sing, and the musos are all top notch and there's a camaraderie in the room that most bands never ever achieve. Two days later we're in a much larger room in Poland. This is starting to look serious. The band is really starting to gel, but then a choir arrives - and then a Oboist, a Cellist and a French Horn player!! What a noise!! But even with the extra players and the added language barrier the party atmosphere just seems to get more and more intense. Showtime - I've never done anything on this scale. The scale of the project and logistical support involved is daunting. But there's an audience sitting there waiting and they've got to be entertained. Here we go. And suddenly it all comes together, the awkwardest moments from rehearsals start to make sense and the sheer power of the music takes over. It's not often in a lifetime that a challenge like this comes along and I for one am glad I was able to take part. I've been stretched musically more than I ever imagined, and I've made friendships for life with people I hardly knew even a week ago. Thank you Clive and Agnieszka. ... And the music's quite good too :-) Christina Booth (Ustane) I am still on a high! It was really hard work and at times a bit crazy but i am so glad to have been a part of the project. It really took me out of my 'comfort zone' and meeting and working alongside such a great and talented bunch of musicians has given me a new zest for singing & writing. Hope we can all do it all again sometime in the future (somewhere a bit warmer so Alan can wear his loin cloth without catching pneumonia!). Thanks to everyone involved for leaving me with some great memories. Xxx Oh my GOD Clive, you did it! Photos by Marta Tluszcz Mark Westwood (Guitars) For me, the highlight of the Caamora experience was getting to meet some extremely nice & outstandingly talented people. Most of who up until five days earlier had never met each other, let alone perform together. Everyone of them doing they're utmost to help insure that the 'She' project, would be as good as we could possibly get it, in the short period of time we had. I also include all the lads & lasses from Poland, most of who I never even got chance to meet. Having been involved in the recording & playing on this album from very early on, I have to admit, there were times when I had my doubts that Clive would ever get the live part of 'She' off the ground, but having known him for such a long time I guess I should of known better. On a personal not I must thank Clive for having the confidence in me & letting me be part of this outstanding product. I hope you all enjoy this DVD as much as I have enjoyed performing on it. Martin Bowen (Guitars) Performing with Caamora in Poland... it was certainly an experience! When I was first approached to be involved I thought it would be something to get my teeth into, and was not wrong. It was a large chunk of material to learn, and I spend a lot of time working on it. When it came to the first rehearsals I felt confident that I knew it, but there is always the unknown factor of how it would run with a live band instead of working to a CD. However, the strength of the band was phenomenal. To put together a 10-piece band that did not know each other, and to pull it off was a work of art. The musicians gelled almost straight away, and there was a real feeling that each of us wanted it, we were fired up to make this work. The boundless enthusiasm of Scott drove us perfectly, and each musician built upon this. By the time we started rehearsing in Poland we had really started to cook, and the songs came alive. It was quite wonderful. The energy we created on show night coupled with the fantastic performance of our vocalists ensured for an amazing production that really worked. Considering this was the first time it had been attempted, and the myriad of logistical and technical issues we all faced, it came together for the performance, and the audience reception was tremendous and moving. Special thanks to Mark Westwood for the days spent in his studio dividing up the guitar parts. It was this that gave me the confidence to know the project would really work. John Jowitt (Bass) Tremendous. On a whole range of levels - the size and scale of the undertaking, the work put in by everyone involved, the amount of material the number of musicians, singers and workers at the venue and elsewhere. So different to anything else I've been involved in, and Clive has clearly been working his socks off to make this happen - fair play. But no matter how much preparation is involved, no one knows quite what will happen when the lights go down. Despite facing two and a half hours of material they'd never heard before in a language many would not readily understand, the audience reaction showed all the efforts had been worth it, and whilst the DVD will no doubt be a must see, I hope we get to do it again sometime, somewhere. Scott Higham (Drums and Percussion) "SHE was an incredible life changing experience for me, everyone involved in this genius piece of work from Clive Nolan were part of an amazing team and it was a privilege to work with them." Steve Williams (Keyboards) For me, it was a fantastic experience all round. I had never been to Poland before so that was new in itself, but to get the chance to meet and hang out with so many great musicians (some of whom I had never met before) was something really special. Although the days were long, it never seemed that way and although we all had our moments of tiredness I think it was incredible the way everyone bonded together both when working and outside of the work environment. Many friendships have been formed that I hope will last for a long time. Richard West (Keyboards) It was a real pleasure to be part of the Caamora project, you couldn't ask for a nicer and more talented group of people to work with. This was a very impressive production and I was proud to be part of it. Photos by Marta Tluszcz Tomek (Horn) It was a very intriguing project, a great combination of both classical and rock influences - definitely something new for me. I really enjoyed all the classical bits and I was surprised with the form and how it managed to capture the specific opera ‘vibe’ very well. I often play the horn in ‘standard’ operas, so I could really spot all the elements of classical arrangements used in ‘She’. Personally I would put even more classical instruments there, but still I think that the project turned out really well. Most of all, I really enjoyed working with such talented singers and musicians - everyone involved in this project were very helpful and we had a great time during the rehearsals and the DVD recording. Ewaryst (Oboe) For me it was a totally different work system. Usually we have fully prepared notes, a conductor and definitely more hours of rehearsals for events of such magnitude. Here I had to find another way to prepare for this performance. But still, the excellent musicians, the professionally made backtracks and a really good sound crew (I’ve worked with many sound engineers and I know how difficult it is to get such an act to sound properly) made this experience a truly memorable one. As for the music, I have to be honest - it’s not the kind that I listen to every day. Nevertheless, the mixture of the stronger parts (like in "Storm") with the more mellow, classical ones made a really, REALLY huge impression on me. It’s a shame that my part in all of this was so little – of course, some of the oboe parts I’ve played were really difficult (some of them were a true test of my abilities!) but still I believe I could have done more. Tomek (Cello) I think I never took part in such a huge act before - at first I was a bit overwhelmed, I guess. But somehow I managed to overcome the pressure and give my best during the premiere. I must say that I’ll definitely remember this performance for the rest of my life. I loved the overall idea, the story and how it was presented, and I’m really surprised that this project needed two years to emerge – it’s really great. I also enjoyed the libretto - I think I wouldn’t be so satisfied with my performance if it weren’t for the brilliantly written music. Waldemar Galazka (Choir conductor) It was a truly inspiring experience for all the choir members, especially since they all had a chance of working with such talented and charismatic artists (especially the drummer...:). The entire choir was really fond of the music they heard - you might even say that some of them became Clive’s fans after that performance. As for the opera itself, we were all fascinated with the final form it took - so different from performances we usually take part in. I think that this form has a lot of potential yet to be discovered. And for us it was a whole new, fascinating experience, since we rarely do any ‘acting’ on stage, even if it was that simple. Needless to say, we are all eager to see the final effect and proud to be a part of it. Rob Aubrey (Sound) It was a pleasure meeting you all (again and for the first time!) considering the task that was "SHE" I think we all pulled it off with 150% professionalism and conviction. There were moments in the show that I from 'front of house' was truly overwhelmed by the performance based on the knowledge that so little rehearsal time together was actually completed. Sure there are things that could have run more smoothly and edits/tweaks that will happen with both the DVD and the show in general but from the school play I saw on the day of the first full rehearsal I honestly felt that given the time an budget of a 'West End' show it could easily rival many of them! Full credit to Clive and Agnieszka for the vision and full credit to you all for realising the magnitude of what was before you! Andy Clark (Visuals) Thanks to all I had a great time working with you, watching the show from out front I felt very proud to be a part of this project. Thanks Caamora for your trust and loyalty in me. Simon Hill (Driving) First I have to say the whole Caamora experience has been fantastic and I for one would not have missed it for the world. I can honestly say that I have enjoyed the company of one of the nicest groups of people I have ever had the pleasure of working with. I hope it will be possible to maintain some of the friendships that have begun during the trip - thank you all for letting me be part of it! Several times before and during the trip I am sure you have heard me say 'never again' - well, never is a long time (as Clive rightly pointed out to me), and if it meant working with a crowd like we had on this trip I'd give the matter serious consideration. Nice one guys! Chris Allen (Driving) Thanks to you all for making it such an enjoyable experience, it made the long drive well worth it and very well done to all the musicians and singers, your talent and experience saw you guys through to a stunning performance on the night, Scott you make me proud (every time) and Clive you are a man of vision. Also thanks to Simon for sharing the driving and for being so organized. Back to Attic