Artists join 40th anniversary party

Lichfield Arts celebrates its 40th anniversary with a number of internationally acclaimed artists performing at the city's Guildhall in October.

The season starts with an eagerly awaited return performance from Jazz Guitarist Martin Taylor, who sold out the venue the last time he played in Lichfield. The award winning musician will be accompanied by singer Alison Burns on Sunday, October 5, from 8pm. Tickets for the show cost £15 each or £14 for concessions.

The weekend of October 10-12 sees the launch of a new festival in Lichfield, Oktoberfest, featuring music and a range of German, Belgium and Czech draft beers.

It starts on the Friday with a return visit by one of Lichfield's favourite performers, blues guitarist and singer Kent Duchaine bringing his mixture of blues, rock 'n' roll music and humour. The concert begins at 8pm with tickets priced £11/£10 concessions.

The following night sees the jazz singer and pianist Lianne Carroll bring her trio to the Guildhall for the first time.

She will be accompanied by guitarist Roger Carey and drummer Mark Fletcher for an evening of swinging jazz. The show starts at 8pm. Tickets are £13/£12 concessions.

This festival finishes on the Sunday with folk favourite Maddy Prior and her show Back to the Tradition. Tickets cost £16/£15 concessions.

The American singer-songwriter Tom Russell plays on Sunday, October 19, while Lichfield Arts' popular Cajun nights continue on Saturday, October 25, with a return visit from Petite et la Grosse.

For further details and to book tickets visit www.lichfieldarts.org or call the Box Office on 01543 262223. Alternatively call into the office in Donegal House, on Bore Street.