We have missed out on a great deal of life's moments in 2020 due to COVID-19 striking in March. Events like the Lismore Lantern Parade and Lismore Show, iconic annual events on the calendar.

Live music is another example of a normal life that has been erased from our lives since March.

Until now, that is.

NORPA and Kate Stroud have partnered to re-introduce live music in The Studio at Lismore City Hall in September through a project called 'Studio Sessions'.

The Studio Sessions will be limited in numbers due to current restrictions but at least lovers of live music will have some entertainment options.

The 'supper and show' performances will be held in September featuring Ben Wilson, Sara Tindley, Lucie Thorne, Harry Angus, Emily Lubitz and friends. Food by Secret Chef.

The Studio Sessions bring outstanding musical talent to Lismore City Hall, with all shows combining live performance with supper provided by favourite Lismore foodies, Secret Chef.

“The past five months have been tough for NORPA and City Hall, so we’re excited to open up again to small audiences for the Studio Sessions. Lismore City Hall is a registered COVID Safe Venue and measures are in place to make sure we gather safely,” said NORPA Artistic Director and CEO Julian Louis.

The partnership between Kate Stroud and NORPA started last year after Kate received a Create NSW Music Now grant to bring live music to Lismore. Following the closure of live music venue Dusty Attic, NORPA offered Kate Stroud a larger space and the first Studio Session took place with Sofiella and the Handsome Husbands at the NORPA 2020 Season Launch. 

“The energy, creativity and enthusiasm Kate brings to Lismore is so needed. Our partnership is built on helping Kate with her live music grant through providing a bigger venue, our equipment and team, all with the aim of increasing access to live music in Lismore. The Studio is a fantastic, intimate live performance venue for music, cabaret and comedy,” said Mr Louis. 

Kate is excited to bring people together once again, “Appreciation grows in absence - we’ve experienced a short while without the magic of live music, more than ever the value and power of human connection is apparent. The Studio Sessions celebrate the importance of community and the inspiration and wellbeing art brings to our lives.”

Studio Sessions in September at NORPA

Friday 4 September - Ben Wilson (on sale now)

Saturday 5 September - Lucie Thorne & Sara Tindley (on sale now)

Friday 11 September - Harry Angus (Cat Empire) (on sale 19 Aug)

Saturday 12 September  - Emily Lubitz (Tinpan Orange) and friends (on sale 19 Aug)

Performance: 7:30pm (doors 6pm)

Bookings: Tickets on sale at www.norpa.org.au

Capacity is strictly limited. All ages.

Price: $60 per person + Booking Fee (tables of 2, 4 or 6 includes performance, supper and a drink on arrival)

Venue: The Studio, NORPA at Lismore City Hall, 1 Bounty St, Lismore.

Menu: For menu details please visit www.norpa.org.au (vegetarian options available)

Be CovidSafe: Lismore City Hall has a COVID Safety Plan in place. For conditions of entry please visit www.norpa.org.au.