Local bands to take to Villa Marina stage

A trio of local bands will perform at the Villa Marina from later this month as part of a project to encourage more people to enjoy local live music.

The Made in Mann music series - funded by Isle of Man Arts Council - see three local acts take to the stage from late September with each event free of charge to entice more residents to enjoy and support Manx-based music talent.

The first will see Voodoo Bandits perform there on Friday, September 25, followed by Biskee Brisht on October 30 and then Sunset Jet on November 27.

There are no tickets as all the shows will be free to attend for people who are 16 or older, and each gig will have a capacity of 250.

Head of Villa Gaiety & The Arts, Emma Callin, says: "We hope this project will encourage more people and in particular younger music fans to come and experience the atmosphere of a live performance at our venue. 

"We have some fantastic local acts lined up and admission is free - so there is a lot to look forward to."

All the bands taking part have previously received IOMAC funding towards recording costs for their music.

Meanwhile, Education, Sport & Culture Minister, Dr Alex Allinson MHK, adds: "This is a fantastic project which will give local bands a platform to perform in the Island’s largest entertainment venue and music fans a chance to see live music for free. 

"It’s been difficult year and this is something to get excited about and look forward to."