The film 'Ronnie's' and a live jazz gig
“’Ronnie’s’ made me cheer, laugh and weep. It’s a revelation! Aside from being a superb piece of filmmaking and storytelling it’s an important film. In my estimation an incredibly important film.” - Stephen Fry
Accompanied by new interviews with the likes of Giles Peterson, Michael Parkinson, Val Wilmer, Chris King (son of the club’s co-founder, Pete King) and Ronnie’s daughter Rebecca, as well as with some of the most iconic figures in music, including Quincy Jones, Georgie Fame and Sonny Rollins. The film explores the club’s 60-year history and shines a light on the uncompromising men and women who built it and who took to its stage. ‘Ronnie’s’ is an exceptional story about one of London’s greatest institutions – one of the last remaining vestiges of old, bohemian Soho. Chronicling an incredible journey through late ’50s and early ’60s Soho, the film is not just for jazz fans; it also tells the extraordinary story of how two working-class Londoners (Scott and King) contributed to the cultural life of the capital. A vital social document and a film for any self-respecting lover of music.
Plus JAZZ GIG
After a 30-minute interval there will be a live gig with a jazz quintet led by Andrew Cleyndert playing music associated with the musicians who performed at Ronnie’s.
Ian Shaw - Vocals
Mornington Lockett - Tenor Saxophone
Gareth Williams - Piano
Andrew Cleyndert - Double Bass
Joel Barford - Drums
Following the success of last year’s Mingus evening, Andrew Cleyndert has put together a powerhouse quintet to reflect on the music of saxophonist/club owner Ronnie Scott and the institution of “The Club” under Ronnie and co-owner Pete King. Ian Shaw, an international star, performed regularly at Ronnie’s from early in his career. Both Mornington Lockett and Andrew Cleyndert worked with Scott in his longstanding Sextet and Quartet - which also featured Dick Pierce, Martin Drew and John Critchinson - as well as playing in many different bands in the club over the years. Likewise, Gareth Williams has been a pivotal pianist on the UK jazz scene, appeared often at the club and recorded his own live trio album there. Completing the quintet is the outstanding young drummer Joel Barford, representative of the new generation that Ronnie was dedicated to encouraging. The group will perform music associated with Ronnie during his career as an outstanding saxophonist, as well as delving into the catalogue of some of the myriad international artists that have performed under his roof. Cleyndert and Co. will also, no doubt, have an anecdote or dozen to share.
Tickets: £20
