9.30 pm, Friday 20 April, Festival Marquee

Can't get to New Orleans this year? Let New Orleans come to you. Immerse yourself in Tipitina's brand of Mississippi blues when they complete the line-up for the opening night of our festival.

This talented young band from Preston, Lancashire, is made up of guitarist/singer Debbie Jones, whose huge voice confidently delivers a wide range of music from boogie to gospel, and piano whiz kid Justin Randall. Together they will transport you to the juke joints, dance halls and warm nights of the Big Easy.

Taking their name from the hit single by quintessential New Orleans pianist and blues singer, Professor Longhair, which also became the name of his now-legendary nightclub, the band draws its inspiration from a host of the city’s great performers including Fats Domino, Allen Toussaint and Dr John.

The success of Tipitina’s debut CD I Wish I Was In New Orleans resulted in a UK tour and shows in Holland, Belgium, France and Spain. In recent times the band has just released their new single featuring a gospel choir called You Are a Blessing from their forthcoming live album Taking Care of Business, which is due to be released very soon.