Barn Theatre 16 Mar – 19 Apr
Ottilie is here at last! There has been huge anticipation about this show, and the star, Jolene O’Hara, has already had wonderful reviews about her incredible voice.
Ottilie, the godmother of British blues began life in a terrace in Norther Ireland, a little girl who felt like an outsider. When the blues music drifted across from the American GIs up the road, Ottilie became obsessed: she’d found her tribe.
From teaching herself songs from sheet music and gigging in Belfast, she went on to play the Royal Festival Hall and tour the UK and USA with the Chris Barber Band, accompanying greats like Muddy Waters and Sonny Boy Williamson.
Dubbed “the greatest singer to emerge this side of the Atlantic”, Ottilie was an immense presence and talent in the ‘60s music scene. So why haven’t you heard of her? What happened to this iconic voice?
Immerse yourself in the music and atmosphere of the post-war jazz scene and discover the legacy of this forgotten talent. Performed by Jolene O’Hara, Ottilie is at turns funny, at others poignant – but always intriguing.
Jolene O’Hara is winning even more plaudits in the title role thanks to her soulful voice, while the live jazz band is transporting audiences back into the smokey clubs of the post-war jazz scene.
Come fall in love with the music, and the story, of the greatest Irish blues singer of all time.
Written by Richard Clements, this Built by Barn production, in association with Rathmore Productions, is directed by Matthew McElhinney who returns to Barn Theatre after directing Stones In His Pockets in 2024.
You only have until 19th April to book your tickets and escape into a forgotten world.
Tickets from barntheatre.org.uk or call booking office 01285 648255
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