Andy's Debut in the UK: Isle of Wight 2008
THE ISLE OF WIGHT FESTIVAL FESTIVAL 2008, (www.isleofwightfestival.com) Located on a small island off the coast of southern England, this charming and quaint Isle, that was once the summer home to Queen Victoria, came alive for the second weekend of June as it hosted one of the most attended rock festivals in the UK.
The festival is located in the town of Newport and has an area for campers and RV's that was filled to capacity during the four days of festivities. Rock icons, like Sting and The Police, Iggy and the Stooges, the Sex Pistols, Kaiser Chiefs, and the up and coming Sugababes and others, entertained over 50 thousand revelers and I for the very first time as The Singing Chef, at a Rock festival, sang and cooked and was welcomed with open arms and stomachs from the attendees from all over the UK.
Here are a few of the photos from my two well attended shows in the new Big Top Tent on Saturday June 14th and Sunday June 15th 2008. I also included my segment on one of the Top TV shows in London that went out to all the UK called, 'This Morning Show" that I hope you will enjoy.
Interview on This Morning Show 
Interview on ITV1
Santa Barbara News Press Article
Richard Mineards
Santa Barbara's Singing Chef Andy LoRusso, who has just returned from performing at one the world's biggest rock festivals, obviously has the recipe for success.
The organizers of the legendary Isle of Wight festival in England which dates back more then four decades, said they loved his act and he expects to be back next year.
Andy, whose fellow performers included rock greats like Sting and the notorious Sex Pistols, says it was the biggest audience ever, with 5000 watching him perform under a gigantic tent, with another 2,000 milling outside.
"It's hard to describe my feelings, but surprisingly, I wasn't nervous at the prospect," says Andy, who admits being in his 50's. "I performed on two days, an hour each show. And while I was singing I prepared three different recipes on stage. I debuted a new song called 'Grillin' and 'Chillin' and sang a couple of favorites including "That's Amore' and 'La Donna Mobile' from Rigoletto.
"The audience went wild and as the words were featured on two giant screens next to the stage, they sang along with gusto. It was a great mix of opera and popular songs."
Andy also found himself guesting on local TV and radio. "Now I'd like to capitalize on that and see how far I can take it," he says.
Tuesday July 08,2008
Audience Comments:
Andy,
I would like to thank you for giving me the opportunity to work with you and assist you with the shows. Maybe one day our paths will cross again. Good luck with everything, and I hope that something comes of the Grillin & Chillin, that song was amazing!
Take Care Andy,
Tim
Andy,
I saw you at the Isle of Wight Festival this year... absolute genius. Stick at the festival circuit and you will achieve cult status. There may not have been the biggest crowd, but lots of people were bigging up your set. Great work! - Iain
Hi Andy,
I saw you at the Isle of Wight Festival this weekend and thought you were fantastic! Quite possibly the highlight of the festival for me, far more entertaining than anything on the main stage! (and you made infinitely more sense than Iggy Pop...!) I made a dive for one of your "Grillin' & Chillin'" caps but missed out - still, always next time! - Alex
Thank you,
Just wanted to drop you a quick note to congratulate you on a fantastic double appearance at the Isle of Wight festival. You were absolutely fantastic and after watching your first appearance, my friend and I couldn't resist coming to the Saturday show and encouraging many others who all shared our appreciation for your talents. I have every intention of trying to make the Food Show at Regents Park, I notice you are down as "pending" on the site, I hope that soon turns to "CONFIRMED!". Once again, you were the highlight of our festival along with The Police and hopefully next year....................We'll see you headlining on the main stage! Good luck with your future appearances! - Dan, New UK Fan!
Ciao Andy,
So, the IW Festival is all over, and we didn't get to see you! Lorraine and I did come and watch your show in the Big Top on Saturday and thought it was lovely, really enjoyed singing That's Amore with you!!! It was such a shame we didn't meet up, I think time was against us. I know you wanted a few supplements sent your way, which I can do for you still if you email me with the best address I can send them to you. As soon as I am back at work they'll be winging their way to you. Once again, so sorry for not meeting up. But I must say thank you for being a stellar artist and an all-round lovely guy! It has been a pleasure. - Clare
For bookings in the UK contact:
Richard Smith at:
Richard@niceidea.eu.
For PR contact:
Karen Emma at:
press@positivemediaandmanagement.com
