Runcorn’s Brindley Theatre will jump to the authentic sound of classic big band jazz this weekend.

Featuring Dr Jazz and the Cheshire Cats, one of the north west’s top 20-piece big bands, it will be a chance to hear how some of the big jazz hits of the last century really sounded in their heyday.

Concert-goers will be treated to the band’s trademark authentic renditions of classic swing, including numbers made famous by the like of Glenn Miller, Count Basie, Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington. The band are also keen to offer a British touch with numbers from Ted Heath, Joe Loss and Ivy Benson. The band’s two vocalists, Jo Howarth and Peter Whittles, will take the spotlight in songs made famous by Ella Fitzgerald and Frank Sinatra, all in their original arrangements.

Dr Jazz and the Cheshire Cats was formed in 2002 by musical director and jazz expert, Professor Catherine Tackley. They celebrated their 20th anniversary last year with gigs and concerts in Liverpool and Manchester, including headlining the Prescot Festival.

Catherine said: “It’s great to be returning to the Brindley where we have always enjoyed a warm welcome. It’s not often that modern audiences get to hear these classic big band hits from almost 100 years ago, played live and sounding just the way they did in the dance halls of the era.

"These days we often associate classic jazz with the crackles and tinny tones of the old recordings – but there’s nothing quite like the sound of a live big band. We look forward to welcoming everyone to what will be a fantastic afternoon of live music.”

Tickets for the concert, on Sunday at 3pm, are available via the Brindley’s Box Office.