Dear Reader - Two big special guest announcements for our upcoming Theme Night Social shows today…
The Big Thing
Firstly - I could list the many world-class artists and bands with whom this man has played and recorded, but I’d prefer to let you all know how he makes me feel.
He brings his all to every performance and subtly asks the same of you.
He tells stories that make you want to hear more.
His playing is the definition of making your instrument sing.
His commitment to music and art is inspirational.
Finally, an audience member said to me after the last gig we did together “he’s a rock-star isn’t he”? And there are many ways in which you could interpret that statement, but if you look at it in terms of being able to command an audience, he certainly is!
The picture below is from his last Theme Night appearance over three years ago - so it’s about time we had him back, and this time we are getting to know him properly!
Ladies and gentlemen………Mr. Steve Wickham!
Theme Night Social:
Fri 17th April in the Art Deco Ballymote.
Sat 18th in the Hawk's Well Theatre, Sligo.
Where else but Sligo?
Going by the many references to discos and slow sets in the dance halls of Ballaghadereen and Charlestown, Tish Mattimoe definitely has Mayo connections!
But we’re claiming her as a Sligo woman for now - and she was a huge part of the success of Theme Night #37 last February.
Her storytelling, humour and matter-of-fact way of presenting anecdotes of life in the 80s resonated with you all and gave a context for much of the music we showcased.
And so as our second big guest announcement today - I'm delighted to let you know that Tish will also be a very special guest on our upcoming shows.
We have created a special segment for her called 'Storytime with Tish' - I heard a few snippets today as the below photo was being taken and I can't wait to hear for you all to hear she has to share with us this time.
More guests to be announced next week - but the clever ones amongst you will get your tickets now before they disappear!
What’s New?
Sean ‘Cabbage’ Callaghan was a guest on our last Theme Night Social show - and he really is going from strength to strength as a musician - and making things happen!
I know he has some exciting announcements coming soon, but firstly - he’s doing a 24-hr gig in Strandhill on May 2. Follow @cabbagecollective on Instagram for more.
Finally…
This is interesting. A piano sonata version of Billy Joel’s the Longest Time, created and performed by his musical director David Rosenthal. Complete with context and explanation if you’re interested (music starts at 2:05).
Audio not great but you’ll get the idea!
Till next time - Kieran.
