World-Class Jazz Takes Centre Stage at Newhampton Arts Centre

Get Ready for a Season of Unmissable Live Music with Jazz at Wolverhampton

The Newhampton Arts Centre (NAC) is proud to collaborate with Jazz at Wolverhampton to bring the very best in contemporary jazz to the heart of the city. Since 2019, this vibrant partnership has hosted some of the UK’s most renowned jazz artists, including Xhosa Cole, Zoe Rahman, Iain Ballamy, and Camilla George. With two carefully curated seasons of concerts each year, the NAC Theatre has become a vital hub for jazz enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

But that’s not all. The NAC’s new initiative, the Café Spotlight series, provides an intimate, informal platform for the next generation of jazz performers. These rising stars, hailing from the prestigious Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, light up the fourth Sunday of every month with zest, creativity, and youthful energy. It’s a perfect opportunity to experience jazz in a relaxed café setting and support the future stars of the scene.

Upcoming Jazz Season Highlights

We’re thrilled to kick off our new season with the extraordinary Pete Roth Trio, featuring legendary drummer Bill Bruford. This is Bruford’s first West Midlands gig in many years, and it’s already sold out—a testament to the excitement surrounding his return. Bruford’s iconic career includes stints with King Crimson, Yes, and Genesis, but his passion for jazz has seen him push boundaries with his jazz-fusion outfit, Bruford, and the acclaimed Bill Bruford’s Earthworks. The Pete Roth Trio’s genre-blurring setlist will take audiences on a journey from jazz standards to reimaginings of classical works, all threaded together by Pete Roth’s impeccable guitar work, Mike Pratt’s driving bass, and Bruford’s masterful drumming. Here’s a taste of what’s to come in NAC’s unmissable jazz season. While our first event has already sold out, there’s plenty more to look forward to in 2025.

Christine Tobin with Phil Robson & Dave Whitford – Jazz at NAC
Date: 13 February 2025
Location: NAC Theatre
Time: Doors open at 7:30 pm, Event starts at 8:00 pm
Prices: Advance £17 | Under 25’s Saver £10 | On the door £19

Multi-award-winning Irish vocalist-composer Christine Tobin takes to the NAC stage with long-time collaborators Phil Robson (guitar) and Dave Whitford (bass). Described by The Guardian as possessing a “24-carat voice”, Tobin’s repertoire spans her original works, classic jazz standards, and exquisite arrangements of songs by Leonard Cohen, Wayne Shorter, and Milton Nascimento. Her distinctive sound blends jazz, folk, and Americana, creating a live experience that’s powerful, moving, and unforgettable. Expect to hear highlights from her 12-album discography, as well as new material from her 2023 release, Returning Weather.

Eddie Parker’s Airborn feat. Rob Luft – Jazz at NAC
Date: 13 March 2025
Location: NAC Theatre
Time: Doors open at 7:30 pm, Event starts at 8:00 pm
Prices: Advance £17 | Under 25’s Saver £10 | On the door £19

Legendary flautist, composer, and Loose Tubes co-founder Eddie Parker brings his vibrant new project, Airborn, to NAC. Joined by acclaimed guitarist Rob Luft, Eddie’s latest endeavour is a thrilling exploration of modern classics and original compositions. Expect lush harmonies, compelling improvisation, and a distinctive blend of styles, all delivered with the freewheeling spirit that made Loose Tubes a household name in jazz. Joining Eddie and Rob are Dave Manington on double bass and Jay Davis on drums, completing this dynamic line-up.

Iain Ballamy & Stian Carstensen – Jazz at NAC
Date: 10 April 2025
Location: NAC Theatre
Time: Doors open at 7:30 pm, Event starts at 8:00 pm
Prices: Advance £18 | Under 25’s Saver £10 | On the door £20

Experience a magical evening of jazz like no other as two musical masters, saxophonist Iain Ballamy and Norwegian button accordionist Stian Carstensen, join forces. This unlikely but mesmerising pairing combines accordion and saxophone to produce rich sonorities and breathtaking musical interplay. Their eclectic setlist spans everything from Chopin to Whitney Houston, and their unique interpretations offer surprise and delight at every turn. The Little Radio is an unmissable treat for music lovers seeking something a little out of the ordinary.

Sultan Stevenson Trio – Jazz at NAC
Date: 8 May 2025
Location: NAC Theatre
Time: Doors open at 7:30 pm, Event starts at 8:00 pm
Prices: Advance £18 | Under 25’s Saver £10 | On the door £20

Don’t miss the next big thing in jazz! At just 23, pianist Sultan Stevenson is already being hailed as one of the future superstars of the genre. Having released his debut album, Faithful One, to critical acclaim, he’s now set to launch El Roi in 2025—an album tipped to be a defining moment in his career. Stevenson’s fresh, modern approach draws from the influence of McCoy Tyner, Geri Allen, and Herbie Hancock. Supported by Jacob Gryn on bass and Joel Waters on drums, the Sultan Stevenson Trio delivers dynamic, contemporary jazz with broad appeal.

Café Spotlight – Fresh Jazz Every Fourth Sunday

Our Café Spotlight series offers a platform for the brightest talents from the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire. These monthly sessions provide an accessible, relaxed environment where jazz enthusiasts can witness the evolution of jazz in real time. Featuring breakout artists like Sophie Gilbert, Nat2, and the Christian KC Quartet, Café Spotlight is a fresh and intimate way to experience live jazz up close.

Book Your Tickets Now!

Don’t miss your chance to experience this incredible line-up of jazz at NAC. With options for advance booking, under-25’s saver tickets, and discounted multi-show packages, it’s easier than ever to enjoy live jazz in Wolverhampton. Book now to secure your spot and prepare to be transported by the sounds of world-class artists in the heart of the city.