A VENUE put on an exciting night of acoustic music for the first time ever before organisers teased gig-goers they “won’t have to wait long” for the next instalment.
Rowan Donaldson, 24, of Colchester, is an actor and volunteer at the Headgate Theatre, in Chapel Street North, Colchester.
On Friday, with the help of musician Cameron Mackie and Victoria Weaver, Rowan staged the intimate venue's first Unplugged event - an evening of acoustic, guitar-led music.
The concert featured three of the city’s best and brightest emerging artists, including Dean Frost, Flores Blue, and Gabriela Eva as the headliner.
Passionate performer Rowan, who has acted in several of the Headgate Theatre’s previous productions since joining it two years ago, said he was inspired to put on the night by his love of music.
“There are many amazing artists performing in venues within and around Colchester," he said.
“I thought it would be good to channel and celebrate them in a theatre space, where an audience can expect a more intimate and personal set by the musicians.
“It allows us to utilise the unique stage in a different way and gives the musicians another opportunity to perform to a respecting and happy audience that want to see local acts.”
For the event, Rowan looked at artists who have regularly played at city venues such as Coda, Three Wise monkeys, Roots and Grooves, and Colchester Arts Centre.
He then set about curating a line-up which he felt would “thrive in a theatre space” - something which he most certainly achieved.
Dean Frost, a solo artist with a penchant for crafting honest indie-folk songs, opened the night at 7.45pm.
His set was emotive, full of impressive guitar techniques, and his shy but friendly stage personality made for an exceptional start to the night.
Emma Sampson, who writes music under the moniker of Flores Blue, then impressed the audience with her sublime vocals and charming stage presence.
The headliner, meanwhile, alternative artist Gabriela Eva, enthralled the crowd with her flawless voice, and put on a dazzling set that ended in a mass sing-along.
Gabriela was delighted to headline the event.
She said: “Headgate Unplugged, curated by Rowan, has designed an event with the ethos that holds respect and intimacy.
“It’s a place that really listens, letting the music do its thing.
“I loved being part of the first show, thank you for having me.”
Moving forward, Rowan promises more events are in the pipeline.
He said: “Due to the response and good feedback I have received it is very likely you won’t have to wait very long for the next unplugged event.
“I am happy to say that this event will be continued very soon and will be post on social media, so people should keep a look out if they want to come along.”
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