SINGER Elaine Delmar returns to the Palace Theatre, Watford, with lots of love for a Saturday date, on January 24.

Elaine's new show, Songs Of Love, features classic love songs from the romantic side of Cole Porter, Jerome Kern, Johnny Mercer, Rodgers and Hart and many more to soothe heart and soul.

As well as being a great favourite at Ronnie Scott's in London, Elaine has appeared in clubs and theatres all over the world.

In Britain she has performed with jazz greats Benny Carter, Herb Ellis and Stephane Grappelli and, as star of the jazz musical Bubblin' Brown Sugar, received standing ovations from West End audiences.

Elaine had a great success with Jerome Kern Goes To Hollywood and appeared in the Broadway production at the Ritz Theatre, New York.

The daughter of the late Leslie 'Jiver' Hutchinson, Elaine started her career at the age of 16 as a singer in her father's band. Since then her talents have developed in many directions, including an acting role at the Royal National Theatre in David Hare's Map of The World, numerous television and radio shows and the part of the Bohemian Princess in Ken Russell's film, Mahler.

For her Watford concert, she will be accompanied by the Brian Dee Quartet. Tickets are £4 to £14; contact the box office on 01923 225671.

SIMON THORPE is one of the top young bass players in the UK and has written music for big band, the theatre and BBC TV.

On Monday, January 19, at Watford PizzaExpress he will be demonstrating why he is a lot more than just a sideman when he leads his new band ImproPhonics.

The band includes, on saxes, Leigh Etherington who was trained at Leeds College of Music, guitarist Mark Ridout who was schooled at Dartington, keyboard ace Mike Gorman, who trained at the Guildhall, and drummer Matt Skelton who has emerged as a fine musician from the Royal Academy.

PizzaExpress jazz organiser Ian Harrison said: "It looks a bit like a brains trust but in fact it will be innovative, modernist but also in a groove.

"It certainly won't be just an academic exercise and it's fantastic to see players such as guitarist Mark Ridout always trying to break into new frontiers.

"I've every confidence in Simon Thorpe who deserves a lot more recognition as an all-round musician."

Places can be booked at PizzaExpress by calling 01923 213991. There is a £3 cover charge.

THE EAST END STOMPERS will entertain at The Pump House Jazz Club, Local Board Road, Lower High Street, Watford, on Thursday January 22. Admission £4.50 members and £6 guests are available from 01582 415079.

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