Ray Bethell, ~85 years old, is a professional kite flyer from Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. He never picked up a kite until he was 50. He is self-taught. He contracted a rare virus in his early 60s that left him completely deaf. He has travelled and performed worldwide and has won many kite flying competitions. In this video, he performs a kite ballet with three kites to Flower Duet from Lakme by Delibes. I can manage to get one kite up on a windy day. This man, performs magic. What an inspiration. Volume up.
Ray Bethell was the subject of a documentary short film titled “Good Stuff” which won first place at the 2005 TriBeca Film Festival in New York City. This film, which I’ve included below, is well worth a watch and listen as well.
Good Sunday Morning…
Sources:
What a fabulous spectacle!
I’m with you Claire. Agree.
The music soars along with the kite..they complement each other perfectly. And you download so well..I’m crazy jealous.
They do. And yes, I have the downloading thing down.
GOOD STUFF! We need more good stuff in this world. Actually I think there is lots of good stuff in this world. We just need to see more of it.
Yes, heartwarming and beautiful story…I agree. More.
“That’s good stuff.” What an amazing attitude on life. Here’s a guy who has been given many a lemon and he chose the lemonade route…..wonderful Sunday post!
Yes, he’s certainly turning it into lemonade…inspiring.
WOW! Thank you Dave! Happy New Year to you, Susan, Rachel, Eric and Zeke.
Hi Leena. Thanks. It is wonderful. Happy New Year to you, Paco and Frankie. All the best.
Like celestial sand painting, beautiful….and ephemeral……
Yes, exactly. All that!
Pretty cool! i have tried to fly this kind of kite and it takes a lot of work to fly one. I can’t imagine doing three with such precission. Very special! thanks for the New Years wishes! Our wishes are the same for you and family.
Me too Paco. This takes talent. Thanks Paco. Happy New Year…
Skilful. I would have trouble flying one kite let alone three in beautiful harmony.
Me too. 1 kite can be challenging…
I’ve always loved flying kites…and this was beautiful to see and to listen to. Thanks David.
I didn’t fly kites as often as I would have liked but when I did, it was a wonderful experience. Thanks Carol.
Wow. Such artistry. Truly amazing.
Yes it really is Maralee
Wonderful! Synchronized kite dancing. And his beautiful perspective. A lovely Sunday morning treat. Thanks Dave.
Yes, the music pairing was terrific. I agree Sandy. Thanks.
Can’t get the first video – banned in my country because of copyright. Too bad – I love the Flower Duet. The 2nd is inspirational – thanks for posting.
Ahhhh, too bad. It was a great clip and the music pairing you certainly would have appreciated.
Incredible man!!
He is that!
Its pure magic, flying even one needs lot of practice. Terrific man.
Yes, magic, beauty, peace, all wrapped into a terrific man. I’m with you Indira