The international success of fado singers like Mariza and Ana Moura has created a popular interest in this soulful and distinctive Portuguese music in London. But what these big concerts can’t convey is the intimate atmosphere of the renascent scene in Lisbon’s restaurants and fado houses. Curated by Songlines magazine and in partnership with PizzaExpress Live, the Songlines Fado Series will bring top-quality singers to The Pheasantry on the King’s Road in Chelsea, London.
Launched in June 2017, and on the last Friday each month, a superb fadista will perform – often making their UK debut. It’s a chance for UK audiences – including Portuguese ex-pats – to witness fado up close, with great musicians too, and to see how every fado singer makes the music his or her own.
“We’re extremely excited to host the Songlines Fado Series at one of our most cherished venues, The Pheasantry,” says Ross Dines, music manager at PizzaExpress. “It’s a great opportunity for new audiences and fado fans to enjoy this beautiful music in an intimate setting, where you can expect a great sound and atmosphere with, of course, our famous pizza. It’s clear there’s a strong future here, and long may it continue.”
Simon Broughton, editor in chief of Songlines magazine, adds “This is a great opportunity to show the up and coming fado names - and in a location that is the next best thing to being in Lisbon.”
Supported by The Portuguese Embassy in the UK
