“West Side Story”

Ashridge stood resplendent

in its glory, its history a  backdrop

for it all

picknickers were drawn to taste

the  offering

the giant screen

For memories to call

the many from wherever

to be ready

seated watching avidly

and be

transported to Manhatten

via Romeo and Juliet

and Spielberg in  the mix

to magically

let us reconfigure our experience

The grandeur  of the house

its mystery

the ring of tall trees slowly fading

root and branch

all the while unfolding

West Side Story

there for all to see

our consciousness

befuddled by the magic

enchanting

all those spirits of the past

yesteryear the photogenic players

apple cheeked and cherry lipped

were cast

the night air fresh and enlivening

created

dance scenes echoing wondrously

motivating senses

Bernstein Sondheim Spielberg

on our case

even Shakespeare’s sonnets

were apparent

and a balmy August night

our base.

The  Jets the Sharks

the racial innuendo

the fading light

the tree’s in silhouette

ghostly figures fading

into an oblivion of  their making

seducing our minds eye

to join the set

the embellishment

of stone it’s portals towering

cornice gargoyle ornamental art

a setting in and outside

of such architectural splendour

history progressing

through our heart

Formality  gentility and manner

an aura of resilience  everywhere

the present and the excitement

of the evening’s casual aura

Ashridge  and it’s staff

Were  all aware.