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A UK tour by one of the biggest names in British soul is to open in Reading this October, as Beverley Knight comes to The Hexagon.
The show is called 50, and marks her milestone birthday, as well as her career.
A lucky few will get to see a preview as she performs a sold-out show next week at the London Lafayette, in an exclusive birthday show.
For the tour, she will be joined by her regular band and she says audiences can expect a fun-filled night where she will perform classic hits and fan favourites along with some new songs.
This include material from her first studio album in seven years, which will be released soon.
“It’s been a minute,” she says. “I am so looking forward to finally getting back on the road with my band again.
“There is nothing like the energy of a live audience showing love in return for you giving them everything you’ve got.”
Over the years, Ms Knight has enjoyed several top 10 albums, including her most recent: 2016’s Soulsville, and her platinum-selling Voice: The Best Of Beverley Knight.
She has also enjoyed an acting career, making her West End debut in The Bodyguard. She has also appeared as Grizabella in Cats, and in 2021, she performed in The Garrick’s production of The Drifters Girl, a show looking at the soul group.
It was nominated for Best New Musical in The Oliviers, while Ms Knight was put forward for Best Actress.
Last year, she played opposite Jennifer Saunders in a revival of Sister Act, and is currently starring as Emmeline Pankhurst in The Old Vic’s production of Sylvia. The show blends dance, hip hop, funk and soul to tell the story of the Suffragette movement.
If that wasn’t enough, she is a judge on the ITV talent show Starstruck, presents a Gospel Knights show on BBC Radio Two, and appeared in Amazon’s live action movie version of Cinderella.
Add in collaborations with the likes of Prince, Jamiroquai, Bocelli, Take That, Chaka Kahn, Joss Stone and Marvin Gaye, and a performance with Goldie of ‘Inner City Life’ at last year’s Commonwealth Games Closing Ceremony in Birmingham, and you have a musician who has had an incredible career.
Here is a chance to join her in looking back and celebrating 50 amazing years.
The Hexagon show is on Tuesday, October 17. Tickets cost £27, £34.50, or £49.50. There is also a VIP package for £117. This includes the opportunity to hear an exclusive two-song soundcheck and take part in a Q&A session before the show. VIP seats also include a VIP tour lanyard and a signed art print.
For more details, or to book, call the Reading Arts box office on 0118 960 6060, or log on to https://whatsonreading.com/venues/hexagon/whats-on/beverley-knight-plus-support
