A JAZZY Christmas is returning to the North East this year to raise the festive spirits.

The show at The Fire Station, in Sunderland, next Monday (December 18), will feature new arrangements penned by hugely-respected pianist and composer Paul Edis, sung by Jo Harrop alongside a nine-piece band.

Classic Christmas hits will be reimagined as swinging big band numbers, sambas and much more besides.

The Fire Station is also offering a meal and ticket package – which will include a two-course Christmas meal, a welcome drink and two of the best seats in the house.

Paul Edis, one of the UK’s leading creative musicians, has released several critically acclaimed recordings of new music in recent years, regularly receives commissions from a wide variety of organisations, and is known for his communication skills and breadth of knowledge, working as an educator for organisations including The Glasshouse, National Youth Jazz Orchestra and National Youth Jazz Collective.

The Northern Echo: Painist Paul Edis is leading the jazzy Christmas fun at The Fire Station

As well as leading his own sextet, trio and performing solo engagements, Paul works regularly with vocalist Jo. Their album When Winter Turns To Spring won Best Album at the Parliamentary Jazz Awards 2023.

His music has been played on the radio in the UK, US and in Europe.

The Fire Station director Tamsin Austin said: “Jazzy Christmas was a highlight of the Christmas season last year so we’re delighted to have Paul and Jo back this year.

"It’s a terrific, feel-good show and we know Paul, Jo and the band will get people into the Christmas spirit.

“You don’t need to be a jazz aficionado to like this show, but if you are, you’ll be blown away."

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Paul and Jo will be joined by Matt Anderson (sax), Emma Fisk (violin) Michael Dunlop (double bass) Matt MacKellar (drums) Graham Hardy (trumpet) Jason Holcomb (trombone) Faye Thompson (alto sax/clarinet) and Megan Robinson (flute/piccolo).

Tickets start from £17and the dinner and show packages are available for £50.

For more on Jazzy Christmas, to book tickets or to see more about The Fire Station’s Christmas programme, go to www.thefirestation.org.uk