This autumn, The Mill Arts Centre will host three exclusive evenings celebrating the timeless elegance of jazz – from contemporary favourites to classic sounds, each event promises an unforgettable experience, with all the glitz and glamour that a truly special night out deserves.
The series begins on Thursday 24th September with acclaimed vocalists Andrew Bourn and Hannah White presenting Bennett & Gaga: The Duets Songbook, which celebrates 100 years since the birth of jazz icon, Tony Bennett. Inspired by the two Grammy Award-winning albums by Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga, this show highlights the extraordinary chemistry between these two generations of musical stars. With the elegance of old Hollywood and the energy of a modern concert, expect timeless songs from the Great American Songbook, soaring vocals, glamour, sophistication and the unmistakable magic of live jazz, performed alongside an incredible live band.
Then on Thursday 29th October, Julia Titus performs An Evening with Ma Bessie, sharing the music of Bessie Smith (Empress of the Blues) and her contemporaries. Mixing Julia’s rich, warm vocal sound with a dynamic group of musicians, this show blends classic inter-war blues and jazz covers with original songs to bring the spirit of a bygone era to life. Be transported to the Jazz Age with classics like Careless Love, Nobody Knows When You’re Down And Out and, of course, Gimme A Pig Foot (And A Bottle Of Beer).
Finally, the series concludes on Friday 13th November as the all-string jazz quartet Swing from Paris returns to the stage. Inspired by the timeless music of the swing era, from the cafés and cabarets of Montmartre to Artie Shaw, Django Reinhardt, Stéphane Grappelli and the master of tango Astor Piazzolla, Swing from Paris combine a tight, virtuosic ensemble sound with distinctive Parisian flair. Described by The Jazz Man as “intelligent, interesting and inventive”, this promises to be a stylish and unforgettable evening.
Be sure to book your tickets early, as these incredible events are selling fast. Visit our website or pick up our What’s On Guide to discover what’s on at your local theatre.
Full details of our programme are available at www.themillartscentre.co.uk. Tickets can be purchased online, by phone 01295 279002 – or pop into our Box Office in person at The Mill Arts Centre, Spiceball Park Road, Banbury OX16 5QE. The Mill is open 9:30am-4:30pm Monday-Saturday with hot and cold drinks and light refreshments available from the Café Bar.
