AN ORCHESTRA that relives music from the 20s and 30s is bringing jazz to new audiences.

James Rawlinson leads the Red Fez Orchette which will swing by Shelley Theatre on Friday, March 1 to pay homage to a golden era of music.

James was classically trained at the Royal Academy Of Music and brought an initiative to life to create a full orchestra.

James said: “Throughout the years, I have been part of a number of bands. However, a few years ago the Arts Council approached me for an event at the end of Bournemouth Pier. I put together an orchestra and it was a huge success. The Red Fez Orchestra was born.

“The music celebrates the composers and groundbreaking acts from nearly 100 years ago. People such as George Gershwin, Irving Berlin and Cole Porter were groundbreaking musicians. Songs such as The Charleston, Anything Goes and Putting On The Ritz are timeless. Let’s share this with new audiences.”

As well as the orchestra, James wanted to make the performances accessible to everyone and created a smaller line-up with the seven-piece Red Fez Orchette, which comes to Shelley Theatre tomorrow. (MARCH 1)

“We have played as a full orchestra at Shelley Theatre before and we are looking at coming back with the smaller line-up.

“By having such an intimate venue, with a rich history, this goes hand in hand with the music we will share. As well as reliving music from the 1920s and 1930s, we are also reintroducing a dedicated era to a new audience. By being close to the audience, it becomes an occasion that everyone feels a part of. We are all looking forward to spending some time in a familiar place."

The full orchestra is also se to return to Shelley Theatre on June 20 for a dance evening.

To book your tickets for Friday, visit shelleytheatre.co.uk or call the box office on 01202 413600