What's On

“James is a passionate roots rocker loaded with guitar firepower.” - Bill Kirchen – guitar legend “He’s the man with the face, from outer space, on his faith and grace” Ian Dury describing bassist Norman Watt-Roy. “I am not easily impressed by guitarists, but this guy is definitely a comer.” - John Drumbo, (Drummer for Captain Beefheart) Next year will see the pairing up of the irrepressible guitar talent of Wales’s very own James Oliver and the bass legend that is Norman Watt Roy (Ian Dury and the Blockheads/Wilko Johnson et al). Fresh from a killer show at the Half Moon in Putney in March, James and Norman alongside drummer, Mark Kemlo, will be fully unleashed to tour across the UK and beyond in 2025.

Piano virtuoso Dom Pipkin is one of Europe’s top exponents of New Orleans rhythm and blues. Pipkin breathes new life into the classic funk sounds of The Meters, Dr John, Fats Domino and Professor Longhair, with these influences emerging in his own irresistible song writing. His classical and sometimes rhapsodic influences are married with a tough approach to the blues and driving left hand rhythms.

If there is one musician who embodies the dynamism and vitality of the current English folk revival, it’s Eliza Carthy MBE. As the daughter of folk legends Martin Carthy & Norma Waterson, Eliza grew up immersed in the world of traditional music and from an early age was championed by John Peel, Andy Kershaw and Billy Bragg. Beloved of staunch traditionalists and iconoclasts alike, Eliza’s music effortlessly crosses boundaries of genre and style. Whether solo or fronting a big band, performing a centuries-old ballad or a self-written song, her powerful, nuanced voice, fiercely beautiful fiddle-playing, and mesmerizing performances have influenced a whole generation of young musicians. Twice nominated for the Mercury Prize, and winner of innumerable other accolades over her thirty-year career, Eliza has performed and recorded around the world with a diverse array of artists including, Paul Weller, Rufus & Martha Wainwright, Patrick Wolf, and Jarvis Cocker. Describing herself simply as a modern English musician, she is one of the most impressive, engaging, and important performers of her generation. ‘Unarguably the queen of English Folk’ The Observer ‘Not the Messiah, but a very naughty girl’ Stewart Lee Jennifer Reid performs 19thC Lancashire dialect work songs, Manchester broadside ballads and clog steps. She played Barb in Shane Meadows’ critically acclaimed period drama The Gallows Pole on the BBC.

Join the sensational David Barton and Al Kilvo, along with their top-class band as they battle it out to deliver the best rock 'n' roll piano experience audiences have seen. Feel the energy and witness the foot stomping performance of Two Pianos as they bring you to your feet and have you dancing in the aisles, singing hits from Jerry Lee Lewis, Fats Domino, Elvis, Ray Charles, Chuck Berry, Buddy Holly, Carl Perkins, Everly Brothers and more! “Two Pianos are truly awesome rockers!” — Jerry Lee Lewis “Two of the hottest Rock 'n' Roll piano-pounders in the world” — The Yorkshire Times “Highly recommended ”— Chas & Dave “Dedicated rockers par excellence-top of our gig list.” — The Times “There is enough talent and individuality in his act for him to make his mark nationally and not just for a year or three.” — The Stage “So, it was non-stop electrifying Rock ’n’ Roll all the way except for a glorious interlude where they found themselves playing straight, snatches of everything from Beethoven to Rachmaninov, just for the hell of it, just because they could and seemingly wanted to playfully out-bravura each other.” — The Yorkshire Times

Can't get tickets for the Oasis reunion, never mind we have the next best thing Fakermaker, back in the Hall for the 4th year running! Get ready for another classic night of indie bangers from one of Britain’s finest ‘Oasis’ tributes on the festival and live venue circuit, ‘Fakermaker’ always give 100% for a guaranteed top night. Get down early for pre-drinks and tunes, doors at 7pm. This one will sell out so make sure you get your tickets early!’

'It’s nice to find a folk-rock band that understands both folk AND rock and knows how to draw on one without diluting the other' 'Robust folk-rock - reels, jigs and stout songs, well-executed and infectiously lively' 'Essentially solid, energetic English electric folk, full of pumping riffs and loads of energy' 'The world can always use more good English folk-rock and this is loud, fast music based on the rhythms of English country dance music, with sharp-edged electric guitar leads, electric fiddle and gutsy, gritty singing' (fRoots, Yorkshire Evening Post, Dirty Linen (USA) and Shreds & Patches) ‘Absolutely great; The Duncan McFarlane Band CD ‘All Rogues & Villains’ is chock full of great stuff, really powerful playing and singing.’ (Mike Harding, BBC Radio Two, Folk & Roots Show

Ray Bubbles, an International Bubbleologist and Guinness World Record Holder, is on a mission to master the art of bubble-making and create the ultimate square bubble! This show promises a whirlwind of excitement and surprises, as Ray uses various different gases to craft stunning bubble sculptures, effects, and magical displays. Prepare to be amazed as Ray creates a volcano bubble, a soap bubble carousel, a bubble ghost, and even a tornado inside a bubble! The show was inspired by Ray’s work with SEND schools, adult neurodivergent groups, and science centres across Europe and is suitable for both for both children and adults with additional needs. Join Ray and see if he can create the ultimate square bubble!

Ray Bubbles, an International Bubbleologist and Guinness World Record Holder, is on a mission to master the art of bubble-making and create the ultimate square bubble! This show promises a whirlwind of excitement and surprises, as Ray uses various different gases to craft stunning bubble sculptures, effects, and magical displays. Prepare to be amazed as Ray creates a volcano bubble, a soap bubble carousel, a bubble ghost, and even a tornado inside a bubble! The show was inspired by Ray’s work with SEND schools, adult neurodivergent groups, and science centres across Europe and is suitable for both for both children and adults with additional needs. Join Ray and see if he can create the ultimate square bubble!

VOODOO ROOM are an exciting Classic Power Trio, paying tribute to the incredible music of Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton & Cream. Featuring some of the U.K.’s finest musicians, they perform a high energy, world class show in total appreciation of these musical pioneers from the world of classic blues/rock!! NOT a dress up, wig wearing, look-alike tribute band – JUST GREAT MUSICIANS PLAYING GREAT MUSIC – STUNNING!’ Time Out. Doors Open 7.00pm

Without doubt one of the very best bands ever to have appeared on the Shire Hall stage and they are in some illustrious company believe me. Established within the ‘hotbed’ of the North East music scene in the UK, they power out jumpin’ hot rhythm & blues in their own indomitable hard hitting style. Primarily, they are influenced by 1940’s and 1950’s R&B. In particular, Louis Jordan, Big Joe Turner, Little Richard, Chuck Berry and Roy Brown but have adopted a harder and more aggressive approach, synonymous with modern blues artists such as Stevie Ray Vaughan, Duke Robillard, Jools Holland and Mike Henderson which helps create their own high energy sound.

Are you ready for the impossible, are you ready to experience jaw dropping, mind-numbing and psychologically induced impossible feats of mentalism. Audiences will be astounded and tickled with laugh-out-loud humour. Unlike a Magician, a Mind Reader does not use sleight of hand, but more sleight of mind! Get ready for a night never to forget and experience what feels like real magic!

The music of the Eagles is etched into our culture. It defines the music of the 1970s. THE BOOTLEG EAGLES take their audience on a powerful journey through the band's career, from their country-rock roots to global chart-toppers. An evening with THE BOOTLEG EAGLES is jam-packed with all of the unforgettable hits and best-loved album tracks audiences love, all performed with the amazing musicianship and stellar harmonies that they deserve. Reproduced with unwavering respect by a quintet of talented professionals, all live, every harmony, every guitar lick and every hook without a safety net. The five musicians at the heart of THE BOOTLEG EAGLES have previously worked with stars including Mark Knopfler, Ruby Turner, Trevor Horn, Jimmy Nail, Prefab Sprout, Si King (Hairy Bikers), members of Squeeze, Dexys Midnight Runners, The Average White Band, and The Style Council. That's decades of experience, translating into performances packed with energy, sensitivity, soul and breath-taking accuracy, giving audiences a memorable and authentic Eagles experience.

Initially the Bluebells enjoyed a whirlwind career spanning the early 1980’s with a recording output including three U.K. hit singles “I’m Falling”, “Cath” and “Young at Heart” made with a procession of producers including Elvis Costello who became a mentor and teacher to the band. Guitarist and ex-fanzine publisher Robert Hodgens (aka Bobby Bluebell) wrote instantly memorable classics in collaboration with the two McCluskey brothers who completed the Bluebells' essential troika and Kenneth McCluskey sang them in a likably unaffected voice,making every track count With the release of their debut album “Sisters” in 1984 onLondon Records ,The Bluebells toured widely in Europe and North America developing their live sound and signing to Seymour Stein’s Sire records in the U.S.

George! The Concert" is a heartfelt tribute to the legendary George Harrison, capturing the spirit and musical genius of the iconic Beatles guitarist and solo artist. This captivating show takes audiences on a journey through Harrison's prolific career, from his early days with The Beatles to his ground breaking solo work and collaborations. The tribute concert features an ensemble of talented musicians dedicated to honouring Harrison's legacy with faithful renditions of his most beloved songs. The setlist includes timeless classics like "Here Comes the Sun," "Something," "While My Guitar Gently Weeps," and hits from his solo career such as "My Sweet Lord" and "All Things Must Pass." With meticulous attention to detail, "George! The Concert" not only replicates the sound and feel of Harrison's music but also celebrates the profound spiritual and emotional impact of his work. The show combines stunning visuals, authentic instrumentation, and heartfelt performances to create an immersive experience that resonates with fans of all ages. "George! The Concert" is more than just a tribute; it's a celebration of George Harrison's enduring influence on music and culture, offering a memorable and moving experience for those who cherish his contributions to the world.

‘A celebration of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons presented by Europe's number 1 tribute The Ragdolls. The Ragdolls will take you on a musical journey through the sounds of one of the most successful bands of all time. Classic songs such as Sherry, Walk Like A Man, Oh What A Night and many more!

Kinda Queen, playing The Shire Hall for the first time., the best Queen tribute band around! Headliners at the Freddie Mercury Birthday Celebrations in Switzerland September 24, fan favourites at Queen International Fan Club in 2022/24 and 2025. Headliners on the mainstage and Big top at Tribfest (Europe’s biggest tribute weekend). We are a Queen tribute without the gimmicks, no yellow jackets or wigs. We pride ourselves on the authenticity of what Queen sounded like live. A true celebration of rock's most Royal band. With raving reviews, a guaranteed incredible night of classic Queen anthems and deep cut album tracks delivered with energy and passion, certainly not just another dress up act

With Over 19 years of experience in UK and Europe, Abba STARS UK is one of the UK’s NO.1 Abba Tribute Bands. Featuring some incredibly talented singers and musicians they offer one of the most captivating and authentic tributes to one of the greatest bands of all time. With tight harmonies, replica of costumes, hint of humour and audience participation it’s a great entertainment for every occasion! Doors 7.00pm

Join Charley Mai Dance for 3 nights of music magic. Whether you are a fan of pop , charts and trending music or well-known musical numbers we've got you covered! By the end of the night, you will know your favourite. It will be a feel-good few evenings showcasing pure joy and a dance family unit you won't want to miss.

Join Charley Mai Dance for 3 nights of music magic. Whether you are a fan of pop , charts and trending music or well-known musical numbers we've got you covered! By the end of the night, you will know your favourite. It will be a feel-good few evenings showcasing pure joy and a dance family unit you won't want to miss.

Join Charley Mai Dance for 3 nights of music magic. Whether you are a fan of pop , charts and trending music or well-known musical numbers we've got you covered! By the end of the night, you will know your favourite. It will be a feel-good few evenings showcasing pure joy and a dance family unit you won't want to miss.

Join Charley Mai Dance for 3 nights of music magic. Whether you are a fan of pop , charts and trending music or well-known musical numbers we've got you covered! By the end of the night, you will know your favourite. It will be a feel-good few evenings showcasing pure joy and a dance family unit you won't want to miss.

Johnny2Bad aka (J2B) are an 8 piece band from Birmingham, UK, who performs the music of UK Reggae legends UB40 (now fully endorsed by Ali Campbell himself on national TV interview), presenting their spectacular, electrifying high energy live shows with a Unique twist, doing all the Hits and Classics, including: Here I Am, Homely Girl, Happens Again, Kingston Town, Baby Come Back, Can't Help Falling in Love, Red Red Wine, Cherry oh Baby, One in Ten, Food for Thought, and much more.. to audiences in both the UK and Europe (with the Brass section and lead vocalist going out into the audience) which really gets the audience up dancing and singing from start to finish. J2B really brings the show to life, with their driving ‘Wow Factor’ personalities and dance moves going into every performance, with a high octane energy, wherever we go.

Comprising three of Britain’s finest musicians and interpreters of songs and tunes, each member of this trio is an acknowledged virtuoso in their own right. Martin Simpson, Andy Cutting and Nancy Kerr have come together for the joy of playing and exploring the possibilities of music together, after appearing together on stages in various combinations over recent years and thoroughly enjoying it!

This lot took the roof off the Shire Hall when they last played here and it took a while to find another date but theyre back! Leeds-based Weetwood Mac are rapidly making a name for themselves as one of the UK's most authentic Fleetwood Mac tribute bands. Comprising of ex-members of Ellen & The Escapades(James Warrender/Ellen Smith/Chris Quick),Wayword Sons guitarist Sam Wood and Hope & Social drummer, singer/songwriter and Paul Simon afficionado Gary Stewart well known to Howden audiences via the Graceland show and Hope & Social., Yorkshire’s answer to Fleetwood Mac feature all of the hits from the 1970's 'Rumours' era and many other classics such as 'Rhiannon','Say You Love Me,'Everywhere' and 'Little Lies' plus many more. Weetwood Mac whizz you back to make you believe you are enjoying the real deal in their heyday. OFFBEAT are a fantastic young rock/pop band, formed after meeting in local youth music group 'School of Rock' They go from strength to strength . Performing hits by the likes of Arctic Monkeys, White Stripes and The Killers, adding more and more original songs as they go..

Back for the second year running! Alchemy Live bring to life the classic era of Dire Straits from the early 80s, playing all the hits including Sultans of Swing, Money for Nothing, Tunnel of Love, Brothers In Arms and many more. This show isn't about dressing up in 80s clothes, nor is it a lookalike competition, Alchemy Live are all about faithfully recreating the sound & feel of the music, each song is a re-enactment of a specific performance by the original band. As the name suggests, many of the song versions are taken from the multi platinum selling double live album "Alchemy Live", generally recognised to be one of the best live albums ever recorded. The band also revisit other legendary Dire Straits performances such as Live Aid in 1985 and their final tour in 1992 as featured on the final live album "On the Night" recorded at Arena of Nimes, France.

NEW for 2025! Come and witness the closest experience to watching the King of Rock 'n' Roll yourself as Multi Award Winning Elvis Tribute Artist Louis Brown and his “Tribute To Elvis" Live Band, brings you all the electrifying magic of Elvis Presley! See how Elvis rose to fame as Louis performs all the biggest hits from 1956 when Elvis first hit stardom. Louis then takes you to Hollywood and on set of Elvis' movie career, performing the best songs from all of Elvis' greatest movies! Recreating part of the ’68 comeback special, Louis will grace you with the iconic leather two-piece suit giving you all the electrifying energy of the NBC T.V special.

If you love The Carpenters, 'An Evening of The Carpenters: Top of The World is a must see show! Celebrating their music, without impersonation, featuring talented performers who interpret beloved hits like Close to Me, We've Only Just Begun, and Superstar and many many more. With live piano and of course an element of drumming you will be taken on a nostalgic voyage through classic melodies and lyrics. A captivating experience for devoted fans and those new to their music.

Without doubt one of the outstanding gigs of 2024 it is a tremendous pleasure for Howden Live to welcome back the Fire & Rain show to Howden at the Shire Hall . ‘Fire and Rain’ is not a tribute or sound-a-like act. It’s simply a collection of six of the best musicians from the North of England coming together to play music they love. Expect the classic James Taylor songs including ‘Steamroller Blues’, ‘Shower the People’, ‘Fire and Rain’ and, of course, ’You’ve got a Friend’ plus many other classics played with skill, passion, emotion, humour and humility. ‘Fire and Rain’ are all highly regarded musicians in their own right and include Tom Townsend (Lead Guitar and vocals), Rich Adams (Acoustic Guitar, vocals and triangle!) Mark Gordon (Keyboards), Rowan Oliver (percussion) with Paul Tilley (Drums) and Bob Walker (bass).

Experience a night of Northern Soul, MC’d and curated by onstage DJ with a live 9 piece band, including all the classics from one of the most iconic era’s in british culture, taking you back to the halcyon days of the Twisted Wheel, Wigan Casino et al. Featuring huge anthems such as ‘Out on the floor’, ‘Turnin’ my heartbeat up’, ‘The snake’, ‘Do I love you’ and many more Doors Open 7.00pm

They are back...for the fourth year running, The Rod Stewart Songbook! This spectacular theatre production is the ultimate homage to Rod Stewart, featuring Pete McCall, Europe’s foremost tribute. Along with his sensational live band, you will be taken on a musical journey spanning 50 years, when one of rock music’s greatest icons sold over 250 million records worldwide. These unforgettable hits include Sailing, Maggie May, Da Ya Think I’m Sexy, Some Guys Have All The Luck, Baby Jane, Rhythm Of My Heart, You Wear It Well, Hot Legs and many many more.

The Jam’d are now the UK’s best known and most popular tribute to the live performance and sound of The Jam, and are totally committed to giving an unforgettable, authentic performance with all the energy, passion and style of the Woking 3. As full time touring professional musicians, and massive Jam fans, the band don’t “try to be” or “pretend to be” The Jam, but rather put on a performance from the heart and soul, drawing on all their memories, experiences and love of what was the country’s biggest band in their day. Gigging up and down the UK at outdoor festivals, scooter rallies and some of the UK’s top music venues & events! The show also includes the only replica of Rick Bucklers ‘Great White’ drum kit & features their own brass section!……You won’t be disappointed! Every effort is placed into reproducing the sound, arrangements and energy of a Jam gig. Those who saw The Jam live will remember the electricity, aggression, passion, and even fashion on stage, something not always prevalent in today’s world, but to The Jam’d, it is a passion, a mission, and an honour to play for fans of “the best band in the f#@*ing world!” As of September 2024, front man of 8 years, Dave Fletcher, stepped down to be replaced by young and talented Luke Gallagher. And so a new era begins!