Cheltenham Jazz Festival hits the big screen!

The 2011 Cheltenham Jazz Festival is set to celebrate the return of jazz superstar Jamie Cullum as Guest Director with a ground-breaking industry first. In partnership with City Screen cinemas, Jamie's sold-out solo festival concert will be broadcast live to more than 30 cinemas nationwide

The Cheltenham concert on Sunday 1st May will see Jamie Cullum perform an exclusive set featuring previously unheard material alongside classics from his best-selling albums. The partnership offers a unique opportunity for thousands of jazz fans from Edinburgh to Southampton to experience the magic of one of the country's greatest jazz festivals live via satellite to the big screen. In a festival first, Jamie will also interact with fans across the country throughout the concert via Twitter.

Speaking about this pioneering musical event, Jamie Cullum said:

"One of the things I love about Cheltenham is that they're always trying something new, and I'm really excited about playing to audiences across the country with this simulcast gig. It'll give people a chance to experience some of the festival's vibe wherever they are, and hopefully encourage a few to come along next year to see more of the whole thing!"

Ian George, Executive Director of Cheltenham Jazz Festival comments:

"We are really excited to offer the first ever live cinema broadcast of Cheltenham Jazz Festival. The Festival has a reputation for showcasing cutting edge music, and it is incredibly exciting to be taking this concert nationwide through simulcast technology. Jamie Cullum is our Guest Director and a huge Cheltenham fan - his one off solo concert is the perfect event to show just how exciting, inspiring and uplifting jazz can be. I can't wait to see thousands of people across the country enjoying the Cheltenham buzz - live from their local cinema."