OTTILIE: A Performance Reading Celebrating the Life of Ottilie Patterson
When & Where
24 Jul 2026, 19:30
Yarn Ballycastle, 24-26 Ann St, Ballycastle BT54 6AD, UK
About
Born in Comber, County Down, Ottilie Patterson (1932–2011) became one of the UK and Ireland's greatest Blues singers. Leaving Northern Ireland for London in 1954, she rose to international acclaim with the Chris Barber Band, sharing stages with legends including Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Muddy Waters and Sister Rosetta Tharpe.
Written and directed by Philip Johnston and featuring the acclaimed Rosaleen Agnew, OTTILIE is a moving theatre performance by Lir Arts Festival celebrating Patterson's extraordinary life and musical legacy. Weaving drama with her iconic music, the production offers an intimate portrait of a pioneering artist whose voice captivated audiences worldwide.
The performance has a special connection to Ballycastle, too. Ottilie appeared with the Chris Barber Band in Quay Road Hall during the 1950s, making this a fitting place to revisit her remarkable story.
Running time: Approximately 1 hour.
This screening is BYOB.
"[Ottilie] had a voice like liquid dark chocolate, a woman who sang with her soul and her eyes." - Anne Hailes, Belfast writer and critic
Tickets
General Admission
£15.00
+£0.38 ticket service fee
Total
£0.00