
Jools Holland & His Rhythm & Blues Orchestra — Manchester Live
Overview
Jools Holland and His Rhythm and Blues Orchestra bring their celebrated live show to O2 Apollo Manchester, blending boogie-woogie piano, vintage R&B, and star-studded guest vocals for a night of swinging, soulful music that spans decades and delights multi-generational audiences.[2][5]
Jools Holland’s Rhythm & Blues Orchestra is a long-running British institution known for theatrical arrangements, top-tier session players and surprise guests; the 2025–26 tour extends his legacy of live collaboration and classic recordings while O2 Apollo Manchester provides an intimate, iconic setting famed for its art‑deco interior and raucous concert atmosphere.[8][1]
Highlights
Legendary Piano: Jools’s boogie-woogie piano playing remains the show’s centerpiece, delivering both virtuoso solos and rhythmic drive.
Star Guests: The orchestra tour often features high-profile guest vocalists who join for surprise duets and classic numbers.[8]
Tight Big Band: A large ensemble of brass, rhythm and backing vocalists creates cinematic, layered arrangements that elevate each song.[2]
Cross-Generational: Sets mix vintage R&B standards with crowd-pleasing hits that attract both longtime fans and newer audiences.[5]
Iconic Venue: O2 Apollo Manchester’s art‑deco auditorium offers an intimate yet electric live-music environment for close-up concert experiences.[1]
Tour Momentum: The 2025–26 tour extends Jools’s ongoing touring run, showcasing new setlists and refreshed collaborations.[2]
Sentiment Analysis
Stellar live band performance with tight arrangements and standout piano solos.[2]
Frequent high-profile guest singers and surprise vocal duets.[8]
Wide repertoire spanning classic R&B, boogie-woogie and mainstream favourites.[5]
Intimate, energetic atmosphere at O2 Apollo Manchester that amplifies the show’s charm.[1]
Some fans report high ticket demand and limited availability for popular dates.[3]
Occasional complaints about venue queues and busy entry points at O2 Apollo Manchester.[1]
Know Before You Go
Venue info: O2 Apollo Manchester is a seated and standing concert venue with an art‑deco auditorium; check official venue pages for accessibility and arrival guidance.[1] Bag policy: the venue enforces a clear-bag policy and may restrict large backpacks—smaller handbags and clear bags are recommended; all bags are subject to search on entry.[1] Age restrictions: age policies vary by promoter—some shows are 14+ or 16+ with adult supervision; purchasers should confirm the specific event age rule at point of sale and ID may be required.[5][3] Entry rules: allow extra time for security and ticket scanning, arrive with a physical or mobile ticket and follow venue staff directions for queuing and cloakroom services.[1][3]
Hot Tip
Arrive at least 45 minutes before doors to beat the busiest security queues and secure a strong spot on the standing floor or to find coatroom space, and check Twickets for authorised resale tickets if primary tickets are sold out.[8][1]
Frequently Asked Questions
Location
Meeting Point
O2 Apollo Manchester Manchester GB

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