Former Drifters star Ray Lewis sings the praises of men’s group

Heartfelt video message hails team’s talents and community work

Former Drifters lead singer Ray Lewis has sent a heartfelt video message of support to a Tameside men’s singing group.

The American singer, one of the longest-serving lead vocalists of the legendary soul group, joined The Drifters in the late 1970s and still tours today with his own group, Still Drifting.

Known for timeless hits like ‘Saturday Night at the Movies’, ‘Under the Boardwalk’, and ‘Kissing in the Back Row of the Movies’ to name but a few, The Drifters have inspired generations of performers with their unique and distinctive blend of R&B, soul and rock ’n’ roll harmonies. 

So, when Ray heard that a group of men from Denton were recreating a similar sound, he was keen to hear them for himself.

After being impressed by their harmonies and their commitment to each other, what Ray discovered was how busy the men are helping with numerous good causes in their community.

The Merry Crew is part of Denton-based Ensemble Theatre, an inclusive community arts organisation founded by theatre practitioner Janet Fagan. Created specifically for men, the group combines close-harmony singing, drama and creative workshops with a strong focus on tackling loneliness, improving wellbeing and building lasting friendships.

Meeting every Thursday at Hope Church in Denton, members rehearse songs, sketches and short theatrical performances, staging everything from standalone productions to appearances alongside Ensemble Theatre’s wider cast.

But their contribution has come to extend well beyond the stage.

Members regularly volunteer their time and practical skills to support community projects, from building theatre sets and scenery to improving local community spaces. At present they are helping with Hope Church’s refurbishment in Denton, giving their time and expertise to support much needed renovation work at the church and community hall.

After hearing about the group’s work, Ray was moved to record the special video message.

He said: “I got a chance to listen to some of their singing and I’m blown away. You guys are fabulous.

“But it’s not just the singing I’m so impressed with, it’s the fact that you guys are there for such an amazing cause. You help so many people, and so many people need our help today.”

Wishing them all the best he concludes: “Look after yourselves and help each other, because you’re helping us.”

Ensemble

Ensemble Theatre was established by Janet in the wake of the pandemic to make the arts accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds. Through weekly workshops in drama, singing, dance, creative writing and theatre production, the organisation has grown into an intergenerational community dedicated to improving health, wellbeing and social connection through the arts.

Janet said: “Our aim is to bring people together to support health and wellbeing, community cohesion and community theatre at its best.”

She has described Ensemble Theatre as a place where everyone is welcomed, encouraged to learn new skills, build confidence and become part of a supportive creative community.

Ensemble has women and junior groups, with Janet stating: “The Merry Crew has become a family. We have some very talented singers, but all abilities are welcome and encouraged to join.

"It shows how music, laughter and friendship can transform lives,” she said, adding the group are in touch with Ray and hope that he could become a patron of their group in the future.

If you would like to find out more about Ensemble Theatre, their offer or would like to join, visit their Facebook page for details https://www.facebook.com/Ensemblecommunitytheatre/?locale=en_GB.

Below, you can listen to a couple of songs by two talented members of the Merry Crew, who recently enjoyed a trip to a professional recording studio.