Live Music at the Theatre Royal - Stephensong: Ian Shaw Sings Sondheim

Ian Shaw Sings Sondheim with Barry Green accompanying on piano.Join us for an unforgettable evening as acclaimed jazz vocalist Ian Shaw brings Stephen Sondheim's genius to life in a spellbinding concert. With his signature blend of emotional depth, wit, and vocal virtuosity, Shaw reimagines Sondheim's iconic songs through a jazz lens-infusing them with fresh nuance while honouring their melodic, emotional and theatrical brilliance.From the aching introspection of "Children Will Listen" and the vocally dexterous "Another Hundred People" to the biting irony of "Being Alive", Shaw's interpretations are both intimate and grand, capturing the heart of Sondheim's storytelling. Accompanied by the world-class Netherlands-based pianist, Barry Green, this performance promises rich harmonies, inventive arrangements, and moments of pure musical theatre magic.Whether you're a lifelong Sondheim devotee or discovering his work anew, this concert offers a rare chance to experience his songs in a new light-filtered through the soul of one of Britain's most expressive jazz voices. Expect laughter, pathos, a masterclass in musical interpretation and "a fearless intimacy" (The Guardian)Stephensong is not a tribute record, but a bold retelling of one of the 20th century's greatest songwriters through the lens of one of the UK's finest interpreters of song. 'Sondheim's lyrics are conversational but poetic, and every phrase carries its own resolution,' Shaw reflects. 'It's tough, disciplined writing - but that's what makes it brilliant. These songs are about real people, and they tell truths we all recognise.'
The evening in Ramsbottom is a celebration of two masters of their craft, colliding in a night of lyrical beauty, daring and emotional resonance.'Shaw brings the quirks and character tics of everyday living into poignant, ironic and often euphoric focus... smart and soulful
John Fordham, The Guardian'The duo work their magic through a dark interpretation of "No One Is Alone" and the hidden gem "Take Me to the World." Sondheim was fond of word puzzles and crosswords, and Shaw's delivery reveals both the brilliance of the lyrics and that touch of ambivalence Sondheim often employed to transform the simple into the profound.' All AboutJazzFeaturing...
Everybody Says Don't
No One Is Alone
Take Me To The World
Marry Me A Little
I Remember
Another Hundred People
Being Alive
Good Thing Going
Anyone Can Whistle
Children Will Listen
Somewhere.