BAR and The Playhouse will see some of the biggest names in local and international Jazz come through their doors this weekend when they are transformed into Jazz Hubs as part of the eagerly anticipated City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival.
Back by popular demand, the Hubs aim to cater for discerning fans seeking the authentic Jazz experience but can be enjoyed by anyone when they host over 20 high level acts between them over five days.
Bennigans has a long standing reputation as a centre for local Jazz and hosts a weekly programme in the genre under the stewardship of owner and Jazz pianist John Leighton whose three piece group will perform a midnight slot this Friday night before accompanying local legend Gay McIntyre at the John Street venue on Saturday afternoon and finishing off the Playhouse programme next Monday night.
The Jazz ‘Speakeasy’ bar at the Playhouse has been one of the most popular elements of the festival for the last four years, transporting the public back to the days of 1920s prohibition America, it is one of the highlights of their Hub when it returns on Friday through to Sunday night.
Festival and Events Officer with Derry City and Strabane District Council, Andrea Campbell, said the public are guaranteed a memorable performance of Jazz regardless of which day they choose to visit the two venues.
“The Jazz Hub initiative was one of the most popular elements of last year’s festival offering the public the chance to sit back, relax and enjoy locally and internationally acclaimed Jazz acts in an intimate setting,” she said.
“Bennigans will host multiple daily acts over the five days of the festival with afternoon, evening and late night performances from the likes of Emilia Martensson, Meilana Gillard and California Soul all very reasonably priced at £5 for standing and £10 for seats.
“Anita O’Day will kick off the biggest and best lineup the Playhouse Hub has hosted on Thursday night, while there will also be performances from the Henry Girls and Paul McIntyre over the weekend as well as the return of the ever popular Speakeasy.”
Tickets for Bennigans Bar events are on sale now from the bar at John Street or online at www.bennigansbar.com.
To book for the Playhouse contact the Box Office on 028 71 268027.
