Steve’s scene
Your Christchurch arts and culture round-up from global music consultant and Dolly Parton’s local publicist, Steve Guest.
One of the best nights out ever at the Christchurch Town Hall was enjoyed by those in attendance at The Pogues’ recent show. It was full of nostalgia and featured a group of some of the most talented musicians you could ever see and hear. They played all the hits (apart from Fairytale of New York, which they no longer perform following the sad passing of Kirsty MacColl and Shane MacGowan). It had the intimacy of Paddy McNaughton’s Irish Bar on a Sunday afternoon and the sound of a stadium concert. To be fair, I’m still reeling from it.
Another memorable night out was the effervescent Jimmy Barnes at Wolfbrook Arena. What a show! That man has incredible energy, and it was pure luck that the city was full of Australians for Supercars that same weekend. Boy, it was loud.
While I write, I look forward to more Celtic fun with The Waterboys at the Town Hall, not to mention American pop-rock duo Sparks there, too.
Now, I also believe there is a massive new venue open somewhere in the central city… has anyone heard anything about it? Our own Steffany Beck and Adam McGrath were lucky enough to be among the first artists to perform at the mighty One New Zealand Stadium in May. Well done to the Council for putting together a fantastic line-up, which saw more than 30,000 people stroll through the venue.
If you want to check out someone who is sure to make waves, and you love country music, take a look at local artist Ben Farrar on Instagram (@farrarmusic). This young artist is blowing my mind with both his original songs and his covers. You heard it here first.
Finally, be sure to check out Mel Parsons’ new album. She will be touring both the new material and fan favourites in town very soon, so don’t miss it.
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Insider intel: save the dates
The next few months see a range of national and international artists make their way to a stage in Christchurch for your listening pleasure… keep an eye out for tours by Simple Minds and Gary Numan in June, as well as the wonderful Te Wehi, who is in town on 28 June with his I’m Home album tour.
Local lass Mel Parsons brings her Castle Hill album tour in August and September. Finally the incredible Macy Gray is rumoured to be coming later in the year, dates to be announced, while Irish legends Westlife come to town July 2027.
