THE BAD NEWS IS THAT SAM KELLY HAS HAD TO CANCEL – THE GOOD NEWS IS WE NOW HAVE KATE RUSBY & DAMIEN O’KANE

A defining voice of contemporary British folk, Kate Rusby has spent more than three decades at the forefront of the scene, earning a reputation for crystalline vocals, timeless songwriting and an unerring instinct for breathing new life into traditional song. Hailing from South Yorkshire, Rusby first emerged as a leading light of the 1990s folk revival and has since become one of the genre’s most cherished and recognisable figures.

Over the course of her career, she has received numerous accolades, including multiple BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, notably Best Original Song and Best Traditional Track, and she was honoured with an MBE for services to music. Frequently described as the “First Lady of Folk,” Rusby has also twice been nominated for the prestigious Mercury Prize, underlining her standing beyond the folk world. Her music has attracted an array of celebrity admirers, with high-profile fans including actors and broadcasters who have championed her work for its emotional depth and quintessentially English character.

Rusby’s impact on the British folk scene is profound. At a time when traditional music risked drifting from the mainstream, she helped spearhead a resurgence that brought folk back to major stages and festival headlines. Her interpretations balance authenticity with accessibility, inspiring a new generation of artists while remaining deeply rooted in heritage.

This special performance promises something truly unique: a rare and intimate duo show with her husband, producer and long-time guitar collaborator Damien O’Kane. Stripping the music back to its essence, the pair create a warm, intricate soundscape that highlights Rusby’s unmistakable voice and O’Kane’s masterful musicianship. For audiences, it’s a chance to

experience one of Britain’s finest folk artists up close — personal, powerful and utterly spellbinding.

The media has consistently lauded Kate’s contributions to music. The Daily Mail aptly described her as ‘folk royalty,’ a sentiment echoed by many. The Guardian has referred to her as ‘a superstar of the British acoustic scene,’ while The Telegraph highlighted her as ‘folk music’s biggest star.’

Kate Rusby’s enduring influence on the music scene is a testament to her unwavering dedication to her craft. Her ability to honour traditional folk roots while infusing them with contemporary relevance has not only preserved the genre but also inspired a new generation of listeners and musicians alike.

‘The undisputed queen of English folk music. Her soulful vocals and exquisite song writing have set a benchmark in the genre’ – BBC Music

‘Kate Rusby’s artistry is a masterclass in folk music’ – MOJO Magazine

‘She is a true treasure of the folk world’ – The Independent

Maddie Morris Support

“Leading the next generation of socially conscious songwriters.” – Jim Moray 

Maddie Morris is an artist who strives to make a difference in the world. Bold, insightful, and refreshingly unique, they take traditional song in new directions to shine a light on contemporary issues, offering new perspectives on the world we live in today.

Winner of the BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Award, Maddie has been described by Jim Moray as “leading the next generation of socially conscious songwriters.” Their music explores the way personal narratives in song can hold political importance. Folk songs have always told stories, but Maddie makes their mark by turning storytelling into action.

Recent collaborations include an artist residency at Ferens Art Gallery exploring trans re-telling of the Sirens myth, as well as commissions from Unlimited, Rural Arts, and the English Folk Dance and Song Society.

Maddie’s practice is rooted in the oral tradition: learning, sharing, and continuing folk legacies by listening, interpreting, and recreating. Their composition draws on tunes, melodies, and lyrics from British and Appalachian traditions, interwoven with their experiences as a trans, disabled person and stories gathered from communities they are part of. This meeting of tradition, personal identity, and community storytelling is at the heart of Maddie’s work—writing historically excluded voices and experiences into the canon so they’re valued and remembered.

Maddie released their debut album Skin to huge critical acclaim on the No Masters label. Skin was described by Tradfolk as “a folk fusion of personal tales, queer & feminist insights, and activism.” Passionately political yet gently understated, this is music that deftly treads the path between art and activism.

★★★★
“An insightful listen… Thrilling, glorious and inspiring.” – Songlines

★★★★★
“Morris is a powerhouse performer with a rich voice and a gentle way with a guitar. Their lyrics are poignant and playful. Maddie is not shy about what they have to say – personal and political – but they celebrate, even as they mourn.” – Folk London

“a folk fusion of personal tales, queer & feminist insights, and activism. A musical journey of voice and virtue.” – Tradfolk

“Skin is a musical journey into identity, activism and hope; the songs will resonate with anyone who’s felt marginalised for being who they are or made to feel uncomfortable in their own skin…while quietly understated, Maddie’s songs are no less potent in their vital messages.” – KLOF

“Morris is an unashamedly political singer-songwriter, their experiences informing some of the most life-affirming songs you are ever likely to hear..sung with a tenderness and honesty that immediately melts your heart.” – Bristol 24/7

“Skin is an album that extends beyond traditional folk music boundaries, a crafted narrative exploring identity, activism, and hope, aimed to both challenge and console listeners.” – Earmilk