Three local bands have been given the opportunity to perform at the Isle of Man’s largest entertainment venue as part of a project to encourage more people to attend live gigs.
The Made in Mann music series will begin this month and see acts performing live at the Villa Marina in Douglas.
The project, funded by the Isle of Man Arts Council (IoMAC), will begin with a performance by Voodoo Bandits on Friday 25 September - followed by a Biskee Brisht on 30 October and Sunset Jet on 27 November.
There are no tickets as all the shows will be free to attend for people who are sixteen or older, and each gig will have a capacity of 250.
Emma Callin, Head of Villa Gaiety & The Arts, said:
‘We hope this project will encourage more people and in particular younger music fans to come and experience the atmosphere of a live performance at our venue. We have some fantastic local acts lined up and admission is free – so there is a lot to look forward to.’
Marlene Maska MLC, Chair of the Isle of Man Arts Council, said:
‘During the lockdown period, we saw how vital the arts were to our whole community, and we are delighted to be working with VillaGaiety to celebrate local live music in our venues. We have three events planned, which will highlight the phenomenal talent on this Island which we hope audiences will enjoy.’
All the bands taking part have previously received IOMAC funding towards recording costs for their music.
Dr Alex Allinson MHK, Minister for Education, Sport and Culture, said:
‘This is a fantastic project which will give local bands a platform to perform in the Island’s largest entertainment venue and music fans a chance to see live music for free. It’s been difficult year and this is something to get excited about and look forward to.’
For more information visit: https://www.villagaiety.com/
Picture: Biskee Brisht - Phil Kneen
