Top night as Dan swings into action (From Ilkley Gazette)

Otley Courthouse

4:22pm Thursday 17th May 2012 in Entertainment

This weekend sees two fantastic events at Otley Courthouse – on Saturday night Dan Cassidy – brother of the late Eva – appears with his swing quartet, and they are followed on Sunday night by Kieradance, whose show Threads includes live Irish music and fantastic rhythms and choreography.

The Dan Cassidy Swing Quartet, pictured, come to the Courthouse as part of the long-running and very successful series of collaborations with SaltaireLive, who regular visitors to the Courthouse will know has brought many fantastic music acts to the area.

Cassidy leads his quartet with wit, charm and some outstanding violin, as together the foursome deliver hot tunes that capture the effervescent spirit of the swing era – all with a little something special from Icelandic guitar sensation Gunnar Hilmarson. It would be unfair to put too much emphasis on the fantastic Eva Cassidy, as Dan has more than enough talent to be recognised in his own right, but as Simon from SaltaireLive explained, “Eva clearly had something special about her, and Dan has some of that, too.” Oh, and if this takes your fancy, look out for Phil Beer at the Courthouse on May 25. Following Cassidy’s gig on Saturday, the venue welcomes the unique Kieradance on Sunday, May 20, with their show, Threads. The show is choreographed by Kiera Martin, and will give a lively and absorbing experience, accompanied by live Celtic music.

Information and tickets are online at www.otleycourt house.org.uk, on 01943 467466 or by popping into the Courthouse.