Rhosygilwen Manor is to playt host to a show celebrating one of the most iconic voices of her time

Bessie Smith was one of the most celebrated blues singers of her time.

The show at Rhosygilwen chronicles her life from a one-room shack in Blue Goose Hollow, to becoming the highest-paid black entertainer of that time, to the tragic accident on Route 61 in September 1937 that ended her life aged 43 years.

Ma Bessie (Julia Titus) and her Blues Troupe (internationally renowned drummer, Sam Kelly, with Musical Director Paul Jobson on piano, Tony Qunta on acoustic guitar, Marianne Windham on upright bass, Clare Hirst on sax/clarinet and Kevin Davy on trumpet) perform to a narrated show, featuring music from the era and showcasing many of Bessie’s songs.

The show takes place on October 23, from 8pm.

Tickets on rhosygilwen.co.uk or by calling 01239841387 (office hours).