Irish duo launch new line-up at Victoria Hall, Settle (From Craven Herald)

Maire Ni Chathasaigh and Chris Newman back by popular demand

2:29pm Thursday 26th January 2012 in Leisure

The Victoria Hall at Settle launches its new programme next Friday, February 3.

First on stage are harpist Maire Ni Chathasaigh and guitarist Chris Newman.

They return by popular demand, having played a previous sell-out show, and will deliver another dose of powerhouse Irish music, with shots of jazz and bluegrass thrown in.

The Reform Theatre Company returns on Thursday, February 9, with its latest play, My Favourite Summer. It tells the story of Dave, who takes a summer job from hell to save money to take the girl he loves on holiday.

“It is a comedy for everyone who has been in love – and lived to tell the tale,” said one critic.

The focus turns to music later in the month, with performances from blues singer Connie Lush on Friday, February 17, and Scottish musicians Moishe’s Bagel on Saturday, February 25.

Jazz band The Quentin Collins/Brandon Allen Quartet keep the feet tapping on Saturday, March 10, and tribute band Whole Lotta Led will recreate the music of Led Zeppelin on Saturday, March 17.

There is another musical treat on Friday, March 23, when contemporary acoustic ensemble Spiro entertain with guitar, accordion, violin and mandolin.

Guy Masterson honours one of Shakespeare’s greatest creations in the solo show, Shylock, on Saturday, March 31, which highlights the plight of victimised minorities.

Another tribute band performs on Saturday, April 14. Classic Clapton, which has itself become a rock institution, will provide two hours of music from Eric Clapton.

There is traditional Swedish music and dance from Scandimoot on Saturday, April 21, and a concert by the Northern Chamber Orchestra on Sunday, April 22.

LipService Theatre Company returns on Thursday, April 26, with a reprise of the Sherlock Holmes-inspired Move over Moriarty.

“Gothic horror combines with Victorian Music Hall as this extraordinary mystery unravels,” says the publicity.

Next on stage is Roxyrama on Saturday, May 12. The six skilled musicians, some of whom have been classically trained, will play every Roxy Music single and all of Bryan Ferry’s top ten singles as well as some choice album cuts.

The compelling story of the wife of one of the 20th century’s great figures, Sir Winston Churchill, is brought to life with the staging of My Darling Clemmie on Friday, May 18. The title role is played by Rohan McCullough, who began her career in the musical Hair and has been described as a “fantastically talented and moving actress”.

The season ends on Thursday, May 24, with a performance by multi-instrumentalist Phil Beer.

Full details and tickets can be obtained by ringing the box office on 01729 825718 or visit settlevicitoriahall.co.uk