Victoria Geelan hosts cabaret concert to celebrate Nina Simone’s

A CELEBRATION of Nina Simone’s life story through her thought-provoking music was the theme of Victoria Geelan’s recent cabaret concert at the Strule Arts Centre, Omagh.

Titled ‘Feeling Good’, the award-winning artist made her anticipated return to her hometown of Omagh to perform the show, devoted to the late acclaimed North Carolina, USA, singer-songwriter, Nina Simone.

The two-hour concert, which took place on Saturday, captivated audiences and saw Victoria complimented by her band: pianist and composer, Neil Burns; and virtuoso players, Rohan Armstrong (double bass); and Andrew McCoubrey (drums). On the night, crowds listened intently as Victoria sang a range of soul, jazz and blues; sprinkling in anecdotes of Nina’s life and efforts for civil rights. Her powerful renditions of songs, such as ‘I Want to be Free’ delighted crowds, and were a moving tribute to Nina, and a fitting celebration for International Women’s Day.

Victoria and her superlative band of musicians got a rapturous standing ovation from a full house, which left everyone ‘feeling good’ – and the Omagh woman truly enjoyed singing in her hometown, as well as catching up with her old teachers and friends.

Best-known for her passionate and powerful vocals, Victoria recently performed at two sold-out shows at The Black Box, Belfast, as part of January’s ‘Out To Lunch’ festival, and she returned to Omagh on the cusp of her upcoming tour, which sees her performing at Derry Jazz Festival on May 2, and the Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival, Belfast, on May 7.