A FOLK singer/songwriter who hosts music nights in Bewdley has organised monthly gigs with international artists in Worcester, with the opening event on Friday, March 18 headlining 60s folk legend, Julie Felix.

Deborah Hodgson who runs gigs at the Moonshine Room has set up Gilded Fridays at Worcester Guildhall with event director, Zeena Lemon.

Julie Felix is famous for her musical career, which has spanned four decades and seen her rub shoulders with musical greats such as Leonard Cohen, Bob Dylan and Joni Mitchell.

She will bring her unique blend of songs and fascinating insights into the entertainment world to Worcester.

Deborah and Zeena saw the potential the building had to host such evenings, when Deborah performed there last year. She said: “The assembly room is a wonderful space to perform in, with the huge golden chandeliers, royal portraits and beautiful windows the room has a real magic about it.

"In fact it was when I looked up to the ceiling to see the words inscribed, ‘music, poetry and drama' that I realised the room was calling out to host exceptional music.”

Zeena said: “We have some outstanding transatlantic acts lined up. As well as Julie Felix we are so lucky to have Eva Cassidy’s brother Dan Cassidy playing later in the year and New-York singer/ songwriter Kenny White in June.

"The aim is also to encourage emerging talent by offering new artists the chance to support more recognized acts.”

It is a busy time for Deborah who is an established folk singer in her own right. She launches her first album, Song Be My Soul - produced by Dan Cassidy – later on this year and will support Julie Felix at the Worcester gig.

She added: “I am really excited about the artists who will be performing this year, some of them are inspirations of mine and it is a true honour to be able to invite them to play such a breathtaking venue.”

Doors open at 7.30pm. For tickets call 01684 892277 or visit malvern-theatres.co.uk.

For more information about the event call 01299 832116 or 07739319371 or email worcesterguildhallmusic@hotmail.co.uk To find out more about the artists visit juliefelix.com and debhodgson.com