By Matthew Sims
Newport will host a range of folk and fiddle musical talent as part of the ‘An Evening of Love, Sorrow and Magic’ event.
Delivered by the Newport Folk Festival in lieu of a weekend festival, the concert will see 18 musicians from Newport Strings hit the stage at The Substation, as well as a personal performance from singer-songwriter Maddie Jackway on Saturday, July 9 from 7.30pm.
Newport Folk Festival director Michael Stewart said the program will see a return for live performances following the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This program is a gem and will provide you with the joy and delights we have missed since the group’s last major performance,” he said.
Newport Strings emerged in Newport in 2006 when a group of four members of the Newport Fiddle and Folk Club realised that they had a shared love of classical string music.
The group began as a quartet and then expanded with the help of friends to form a larger orchestra.
Local violinist Michaela Mee will lead the Newport Strings orchestra, while Maddie Jackway will perform her unique blend of songs inspired by pop, rock, folk, soul, blues, gospel, R&B and country.
Mr Stewart said Maddie will finally grace a Newport stage after initially being slated to play at the cancelled 2021 Newport Folk Festival.
“Maddie Jackway, from Warrnambool, caught the attention of Newport Folk Festival back in 2020 when she sang as part of an online Arts and Industry Event,” he said.
“We are pleased to welcome Maddie to The Substation.
“Her big soulful vocals will capture your hearts as she explores the life she, and we, love, in all its forms.”
Details: nffc.org.au