THE NCEM’s medieval church provided an enchanting setting for this mystical, magical and fairytale-themed charity gig, organised and hosted by York photographer Marc McGarraghy of Yellow Mustang Photography.

All proceeds will be going to Jessie’s Fund, the York charity set up to provide music therapy in children’s hospices by Jessie’s parents, who are both musicians. When Jessie was diagnosed aged nine with an inoperable tumour, they found there was little or no provision for this kind of therapy within British hospices; their fund now provides music therapy, or some kind of assistance with the benefits of therapeutic music, to 45 children’s hospices.

Triumphing over adversity was the theme for the charity event, kicked off by York spoken-word artist Stu Freestone with uplifting poems of childhood jaunts and a focus on a positive outlook. Accompanied by a backdrop of live music, this set the tone for a night of original and thought-provoking performances.

The main act, Vesper Walk, presented the premiere of Fallen Angel, which saw duetting sisters Catherine Cowan and Lisa-Marie Baker lead a seven-piece gothic art-pop band through a theatrical, modern-day fairytale show about a young girl overcoming adversity in the 21st century.

Influences ranged from classical music to cabaret to Tori Amos, as the seven-piece accomplished a captivating and atmospheric sound with a supreme level of musicianship. A great night was had by all, and all for a great cause.