Live in the Garret Theatre at Storyhouse, Chester
Over the past year, something truly magical has taken root in the Garret Theatre. Curated and hosted by Channel 4’s The Piano’s Igloo Hearts, The Blue Lantern Sessions has blossomed into one of the most talked-about nights in Chester. Month after month, Igloo Hearts, in partnership with Storyhouse, have brought together breathtaking performers from across the UK—artists who pour their hearts into every note and create intimate, spellbinding evenings that linger in the memory long after the final chord.
It’s more than a concert. It’s a community. And now… it’s time to celebrate.
On Monday 9 September, join us for a very special first birthday edition of The Blue Lantern Sessions—featuring a lineup that promises to be unforgettable, with a few celebratory surprises along the way.
Featuring
- Charlie Dore – award-winning songwriter (for artists like Celine Dion, Tina Turner, George Harrison), actor, and brilliantly original performer, headlining the evening. Charlie will be accompanied by Julian Littman, her long-time collaborator and member of folk-rock legends Steeleye Span, bringing dazzling musicianship and warmth to every note.
- Cara Hammond – special guest of the evening, who has supported Tom Jones and performed at Glastonbury and Green Man Festival, bringing her own captivating stage presence and musicality to the celebration.
- Igloo Hearts – our wonderful hosts, opening the evening with their signature blend of close harmonies, poetic lyrics, classical piano, and folk guitar.
And yes… a few surprises are in store! Expect laughter, connection, outstanding songwriting, and the magic that only live music can offer.
A year of magic in the Garret
Since launching, The Blue Lantern Sessions has been graced by some of the UK’s most talented artists, creating moments audiences still talk about:
- Michele Stodart of The Magic Numbers, who described her experience as: “For the love of music, collaboration, being true to ourselves and each other, telling our stories and lifting each other up. What a very special show it was – thank you!”
- The Gentle Good, Welsh Music Prize winner, whose storytelling and folk mastery left the theatre captivated.
- Other past highlights include nights with 7 piece folk bands, unique ‘finale’ collaborations, and intimate, unforgettable performances.
It’s a place where artists and audiences connect, where songs are felt as much as heard, and where every evening becomes a memory.
Looking ahead: the year doesn’t stop here
The Blue Lantern Sessions isn’t just celebrating its first birthday—it’s rolling out a spectacular lineup for the months ahead, including:
- Katie Spencer
- Mark Radcliffe
- Kathryn Williams with Matt Deighton
Every night promises the same heart, warmth, and musical brilliance that has made The Blue Lantern Sessions a must-visit for music lovers.
Why people love The Blue Lantern Sessions
I love everything about The Blue Lantern Sessions. Each evening is unique. The performances are so intimate, it’s like the artists are in your own living room. A melting pot of gorgeousness.
Erica H, Audience Member
What you’ve created is incredible. I’ll be back!
Mike C, Audience Member
Such a special show.
Neal Thompson, Co-Founder of FOCUS Wales
Grassroots music at its best—each night with a unique flavour, unpretentious and full of heart.
Will Riding
Come and join us at our celebration
Monday 9 September
7.30pm
Garret Theatre, Storyhouse
Tickets available now with discounts for multiple sessions booked. Join the celebrations of an unforgettable year.
The Blue Lantern Sessions
Still glowing. One year on.
Tickets available here
