Local bands are being given the chance to host their own nights at the Villa Marina from next weekend.

Staring next Friday, the Promenade Suite will host ’Made in Mann’, a series of free monthly gigs featuring local groups, beginning with the Voodoo Bandits, followed by Biskee Brisht on Friday, October 30, and Sunset Jet on Friday, November 27.

The concerts are being jointly organised by the Isle of Man Arts Council and the government, who hope that they will encourage people to get out and see local groups and to experience the atmosphere of a live performance.

’During the lockdown period, we saw how vital the arts were to our whole community, and we are delighted to be working with VillaGaiety to celebrate local live music in our venues,’ said Marlene Maska MLC, the chair of the Isle of Man Arts Council.

’We have three events planned, which will highlight the phenomenal talent on this island which we hope audiences will enjoy.’

All three acts have previously been funded by he arts council to help with recording projects.

The Voodoo Bandits have released several singles over the past year and the popular folk-pop group Biskee Brisht have recently released their debut album, ’Stand in the Sea’.

by Mike Wade

Twitter:@iomnewspapers