On 9 May, two stages will be set up in the beer garden of O’Grady’s 12 Bar in Quinta Da Figuerinha, Silves, which is owned by Tasmanian national and Algarve resident Kevin O’Grady.
Around 20 acts are expected to give short performances, between 2pm and 10pm, at the event which is open to the public and free to attend.
Speaking to The Portugal News, Kevin O’Grady, a musician himself who spent many years in Ireland before moving to the Algarve seven years ago, said “many venues have the same musician every season”, and “lots of bands are over-exposed.”
Another problem, he believes, is that venue owners struggle to get out and see what is available throughout the region.
The showcase, he explained, is designed to “get everyone together at one time” as well as provide an opportunity for new acts to demonstrate their talents.
It is specifically aimed at hoteliers, restaurant and bar owners, entertainment managers and agents from across the Algarve to discover the diversity and range of talent the region has to offer.
All types of acts are invited to take part and a special guest appearance will be made by the up-and-coming singer-songwriter Barry Tierney from Ireland, who will play a selection of tracks from his debut album, Hotel Alamar.
Opened in 2010, O’Grady’s 12 Bar is known for its live music and jam sessions and holds regular musical events that range from Irish, pop and rock classics to country, blues and Portuguese music.
A spokesperson for the Mad Cats band, who will be taking part in the showcase, said of the initiative, “It’s a really good idea”, particularly for newcomers on the scene.
Dutch singer ‘Case the Base’, who is part of the international Mad Cats band and who has been in the Algarve for over 30 years, said making a living from performing in this part of Portugal “is not easy; you do it because you love it.”
For more information or to perform, call 962 837 550 or see www.ogradys12bar.com.