The richly expressive voice of Cleveland Watkiss has been at the heart of some the key movements in UK jazz over three decades - Cleveland at 50 brings together a fascinating array of his friends and musical associates in a night that celebrates a journey through the myriad styles and individuals that characterise British jazz today.  
 
Whether you’re familiar with Cleveland Watkiss through his collaborations with Goldie or Talvin Singh, his work with seminal bands like the original Jazz Warriors and Jazz Train or you’ve listened to his scatting over a classic be bop tune, there is no doubt that vocalist Watkiss has led a remarkable career to date.
 
In recognition of this and to celebrate his 50th birthday the Festival presents the world premiere of an evening that takes in the astounding variety of Cleveland’s musical ventures over the years – ranging from reggae and electronica through to jazz and drum ‘n’ bass. The concert features over 30 guests whom Cleveland has worked with over the years ranging from Goldie and Talvin Singh to Alex Wilson and Nikki Yeoh.
 
Over the course of an evening of reunion and discovery, Watkiss and a host of friends old and new, will celebrate his considerable achievements as well as the diversity of sounds that has made up the British jazz scene over the last 50 years.
 
The show will also feature a performance by a class of children from Rushmore Primary School where Cleveland went to school, the culmination of a workshop project that has run through the autumn.
 
Augmented with specially created visuals it promises to be a thrilling evening of entertainment.