Hinton also brought in a member of the famous Green balloon family to launch a hot air balloon from the grounds of the pleasure garden. The music from Irish composer Michael Balfe’s song
The Power of Love, from his operetta
Satanella, a soprano highlight performed at the Barn in 1861, makes for a perfect accompaniment for the idea of taking to the skies above Highbury
. The Spencer balloon making factory building still exists, close to the Barn, at the end of Melody Lane.
Vocals: Elizabeth Cochrane.
Music by Michael Balfe, arranged and conducted by Romain Malan and performed by the
World Harmony Orchestra
Members of the World Harmony Orchestra led by Romain Malan: Anna Caban; (violin/Leader); Madlena Georgieva (violin); Andrea Timpanaro (violin); Eleanor Harrison (violin); Elin Parry (viola); Alexandra Fletcher (cello); Sara Minelli (flute); Anna Hashimoto (clarinet); William Brown (trombone)
Lyrics
Floating over Highbury, in a big balloon
Looking down on London, closer to the moon
Hot air over Highbury, floating ‘cross the sky
Do I think I’m dreaming, now that I can fly
Strapped into a basket, up amongst the birds
Waving to the people, who move like ants in herds
Feeling quite superior, maybe it’s the air
When I land in Highbury, Queen for the day I’m sure
Highbury Highbury, Queen for the day I’m sure
Highbury Highbury, I am sure
Highbury for evermore
Highbury for evermore