Carnival-inspired launch special beckons for The Vale

The Vale has announced a new Carnival-inspired live programme and a September launch weekend as the unique Mossley arts centre reopens following £1m refurbishment.

The Vale, which is on Micklehurst Road in Mossley, has undergone a £1m renovation creating a high-spec new centre for the arts.

Launching after the toughest of years for artists, venues and audiences, The Vale will host a live programme of music, dance, cinema, theatre and visual arts, attracting thousands of visitors from Tameside, Oldham and beyond.

The Vale is also the Northern Carnival Centre of Excellence and home to two of the North West's leading Carnival arts organisations Global Grooves and Cabasa CIC.

This Carnival connection has provided inspiration for curating the live programme, reflecting traditions and cultures from around the world.

The Vale’s live season begins with a jam-packed launch weekend.

On September 10, festival favourites Mr Wilson’s Second Liners will bring their high energy, New Orleans inspired arrangements of 90s dance tracks to The Vale, for a night of dancing and letting loose.

The season continues with Honeyfeet, on September 11.

Honeyfeet have performed across the UK and Europe and featured on live sessions on Craig Charles’ funk and soul show (BBC6 Music).

They’ll bring their unique fusion of folk, blues, pop, disco and jazz to create a spellbinding experience for this new venue.

Fronted by Rioghnach Connolly - who has been described as ‘a remarkable singer and flautist’ and crowned 2019 BBC Radio 2 Folk Singer of the Year - this is a gig not to be missed.

Sefo Kanuteh, a virtuosic and authentic Kora and Belafon player from The Gambia will perform at The Vale on September 25.

Having worked with world renowned artists such as Baaba Maal and the BKO Quintet, Sefo Kanuteh is now embarking on a 12-date UK tour funded by Arts Council England.

The event will see Sefo Kanuteh perform with his band using instruments that he makes himself as he shares his musical culture with the audience.

A group of diverse multi-instrumentalists from the Global Grooves Carnival community have been working together as part of a music masterclass, and will provide the support to Sefo Kanuteh.

Leon Patel, Chief Executive Officer at Global Grooves, said: “This is such a great way to launch The Vale as a live music venue.

"These world-class artists are coming to a small town in Oldham to share their fantastic music with our communities.

"That’s exactly what The Vale is all about.

“We’re so excited by what we’ve achieved with the refurbishment.

"Featuring a custom-designed, flexible PA system, an environmentally conscious stage lighting system, a fully stocked bar and plenty of Carnival colour, the space is accessible and perfect for live performances of all kinds.

"We can’t wait to welcome everyone.”

For more information on the programme of live events and to book tickets visit: https://www.the-vale.co.uk/venue/the-vale/

---

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.