About
About Jazz Jurassica - the home of live jazz in Dorset and Devon
"Jazz Jurassica is a labour of love run by two music loving enthusiasts living in Lyme Regis. We want to spread our passion for jazz, in all its forms, along the Jurassic Coast. This is our story so far....."
Julie Sheppard & David Kitson
Directors - Jazz Jurassica
What is Jazz Jurassica?
We promote an attractive, exciting and vibrant programme of music along the Jurassic Coast.
It originally started when we took over the existing Lyme Regis Jazz & Blues Festival six years ago. Little did we know then it would grow like topsy and soon take over our lives.
One early decision was to rename the festival “Jazz Jurassica”. We wanted to signal the change to a broader musical programme, reaching out to new audiences, with the possibility of events during the rest of the year.
The festival had strong “trad jazz” roots. But we soon left these behind to feature the very best of modern jazz, soul, funk and latin. As a result Jazz Jurassica quickly became a popular, vibrant and prestigious annual event, attracting a new younger crowd.
Where we got to
Looking back, we’re very proud of what we achieved. Jazz Jurassica was one of the few independently financed festivals in the country, run largely by volunteers. We were large enough to attract big acts but small enough to get to know customers personally.
During our time, the late Chris Barber, Georgie Fame, Ruby Turner, James Taylor Quartet and Geno Washington appeared as well as dozens of talented but lesser known artists.
We’ve loved running the festival, met many awesome musicians and made many new friends. But we can’t lie. It was incredibly demanding, and at times, stressful. So, we decided, reluctantly, that it was time to move on…….what’s next?
Moving on
We’re not about to rest on our laurels. We’re now ready for new challenges and to shake things up. So, we’re stepping down from running the annual festival to refocus our efforts.
Going forward, we’re on a mission. To bring you the same exciting, vibrant music programme but spread throughout the year.
Inevitably, this will mean changes.
But we promise you’ll see more not less of Jazz Jurassica in future. We’ll continue to bring top quality acts close to where you live. And forge new partnerships with local venues to spread the love a bit further.
Jazz Jurassica will continue to deliver top quality performances, excellent customer service and a great night out!
What's coming next?
World class jazz in a new cabaret-style supper club – at The Gateway Theatre in Seaton. The launch event was held in November 2022 – it will run continuously into 2023.
Dancefloor boogie in a mix of jazz, latin, hip-hop and afrobeat at Marine Theatre in Lyme Regis. This new series of events, inspired by new wave jazz, will begin in the Autumn.
Behind the scenes, we’ll be nurturing the next generation of award-winning performers. Providing them with performing opportunities and support.
Who knows there might even be a “festival-in-a day” pop-up or two?
Our ambitions for Jazz Jurassica remain high. We intend to surprise and excite you. Jazz with pizazz – come along for the ride!
