Manchester music legend and Stone Roses bassist Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield, his wife Imelda and their dedicated team delivered an unforgettable cabaret event and auction that captivated attendees’ hearts on Thursday night.
Hosted at The Edwardian Radisson, the evening featured a perfect blend of music, comedy, poetry, and cartoons, all in support of Maggie’s Centres, a charity that has been a pillar of strength for Imelda, Mani and their family during Imelda’s battle with stage four bowel cancer, diagnosed in November 2020.
Imelda Mounfield shared her thoughts on the event: “This night was not just about entertainment; it was about raising awareness for a disease that has touched our lives deeply. We are overwhelmed by the love and support from friends, fans, and the community who joined us in this cause.”
The online auction, hosted by Adam Partridge Auctioneers, showcased an incredible array of exclusive items generously donated by friends from the world of music, sport, and entertainment.
The auction culminated at the event itself and featured highlights such as a Stone Roses’ iconic ‘lemon’ front bass drum head used by Reni during their legendary gigs at Heaton Park, signed by the band; Peter Savile’s original cassette artwork for Joy Division’s seminal Unknown Pleasures album; Zak and Ringo Star’s signed snare drum head; Stone Roses drummer Reni’s signed drumsticks; David Beckham’s signed boots worn for the last match of his career on 18th May 2013 for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG); a Platinum disc of The Jam’s “Snap” album; and several signed football shirts.
Imelda expressed her gratitude, saying, “A heartfelt THANK YOU to everyone who attended the event and those who participated in the online auction and bought raffle tickets. Your support means the world to us and the Maggie’s Centres.”
The cabaret event was a showcase of talent and entertainment. Hosted by the renowned broadcast, writer, and presenter Terry Christian, it featured performances by spoken word and indie hip-hop artist Antony Szmierek. Cold Feet and The Fast Show star John Thomson provided uproarious comedy and impersonations. Guests were reeling in laughter as the brilliant Clinton Baptiste walked through the audience in search of someone to roast. No one was safe from his brilliantly funny, clairvoyant and psychic character. To add to the star-studded lineup, the world-famous boxing champion Ricky Hatton surprised attendees with a hilarious stand-up performance.
The live music featured mod-influenced singer/guitarist Kevin Iverson, warming the crowd up early doors. The evening’s musical magic was further enhanced by the powerful, soulful vocals of Mary Pearce, known for her collaborations with music legends such as Lionel Ritchie, Chaka Khan, Courtney Pine, Mica Paris, Beverley Knight, Donna Summer, Roy Ayres, and Primal Scream. Mary Pearce even lent her support to the auction! Ocean Colour Scene’s Simon Fowler and Oscar Harrison delivered a stunning acoustic set and got the audience singing along.
Cartoonist Tony Husband added a unique touch to the evening, opening his Cartoon Confessional Box, where attendees had the opportunity to ‘confess their sins’ in exchange for a personalised cartoon.
Mani sums things up, “The nerves were jangling a little as the night arrived, but it soon became apparent that something special was about to take place. The dreaded COVID reared its ugly head, depriving us of a few friends. Smug Roberts was replaced by the wonderful Ricky Hatton ~ thanks, mate. You’re a champion forever.
“All the acts performed magnificently and the auction and raffle kicked off some great fundraising for Maggie’s. We’re blown away by the generosity from our guests, our host and all the performers. Thanks for all the support. Time for a rest now for all the team. Let’s see what’s in store next year.”
