You know it: West End Live Lounge is a line-up of great musicians and singers, from the West End (and beyond), who sing material not from musical theatre, but hits coming from the charts, on particular themes. The event, organized by Shaun McCort, raises money for charity. Amazing, right?

The theme of this show was the celebration of women, and the charity chosen was Samaritans. They provide emotional support to anyone in emotional distress, struggling to cope, or at risk of suicide throughout the United Kingdom and Ireland, often through their telephone helpline, but also email.

 

Under the musical direction of Sam Coates, the live band provided an impeccable accompaniment for a parade of artists (mostly women, this time), for a night of music hosted by Sam Holmes. Shekinah McFarlane (with the beautiful Sometimes you have to lose to win), Sejal Keshwala (Rise up, what a song – and what a voice!), Christina Bennington, Emma Hatton, Lauren James Ray, Kayleigh McKnight, Rodney Vubya (a great performance with the Roberta Flack/ Fugees’ timeless classic Killing me softly), Matthew Harvey, Divalution, Jennifer Tierney, Christina Modestou, Louise Dearman, Claudia Kariuri, Simon Gordon (one of the best performances of the night) and many more. What I enjoy most of West End Live Lounge is the friendly atmosphere and that there is something for everyone – and of course if you love theatre, you will see your favourite artists on that stage.

 

Listening to great music, helping a good cause, spending an evening with happy people: if you haven’t been to West End Live Lounge yet, think about grabbing a ticket for the next one.

 

For more information about Samaritans, click here