While legendary chanteuse, Edith Piaf, is celebrated as one of France's biggest international stars, much of her life is shrouded in mystery. To shed light on the Parisian Sparrow, DAF showcases an intriguing evening, with a talk by musician and lecturer Derek Blyth, accompanied by Didsbury-based songbird, Jill Taylor.
Those who attended DAF two years ago may remember the fantastic Life of the Cabaret evening, put together by this talented duo
'Popular music has always been part of me and the success of our previous Cabaret evening brought Piaf's music into my mind for this year's festival,' said Derek who will be accompanying Jill on accordion and piano.
'I am a huge fan of Kurt Weil, Frank Sinatra and other music in the genre. But as Opera North had 'snatched' Kurt Weil for their programme, we decided on Piaf.'
'Jill will provide her own interpretation of the music and I will explain some aspects of Piaf's life. The emphasis is on entertainment – a talk rather than a lecture - interspersed with seven of Piaf's songs.'
So whether your favourite Piaf song is 'La Vie en Rose' or 'L'Accordioniste', come along to the Emmanuel Church to be educated and entertained. The performance will last around 80 minutes. And if that whets your appetite for more Piaf, Derek will give a more academic lecture on the singer at the Manchester Literary and Philosophical Society on 15 October.
No Regrets – The Life and Music of Edith Piaf, 28 June (7.45 pm), Emmanuel Church, Didsbury. Tickets £7. more information here
By Laura Linkomies