A celebration of the life and music of Karen Carpenter, vocalist and drummer of iconic 70s pop band the Carpenters. The event is led by world class pianist and arranger Janette Mason featuring award-winning biographer Lucy O’Brien and singer songwriter Jo Harrop.
Lucy’s new book Lead Sister traces Karen’s poignant story with fresh insight and in-depth interviews.

An evening of classic songs beautifully re-arranged, and an informative book reading/Q&A giving fans the opportunity to ask questions about Karen’s life and music.

Janette Mason– Musical Director
Janette has garnered a reputation for her stunning arrangements and has produced a hugely successful series of shows including, Wall To Wall Bowie and Aretha Queen Of Soul. She has a long list of credits including performing with Oasis and Pulp to writing music for film and television.

Lucy O’Brien- Words
Lucy is a writer/academic and broadcaster. She is author of Dusty: The Classic Biography, She Bop: The Definitive History of Women in Popular Music and Madonna: Like An Icon. She played in all-girl band The Catholic Girls and is currently working on a memoir about punk and feminism.

Jo Harrop - Vocals
Born in Durham and raised on a heady musical diet of Nina Simone, Billie Holiday and Aretha Franklin, Jo Harrop cut her teeth as a session singer, working with a host of iconic artists including Neil Diamond, Rod Stewart, Gloria Gaynor and Enrique Iglesias.

Simon Little - Bass
Simon is a session bassist from London. A graduate of the Guildhall School of Music & Drama, Simon joined The Divine Comedy whilst still at college and is still a regular member of the band. He has also been a performed with Clare Teal’s band since 2004, as well as touring and recording with The Duckworth Lewis Method, Maggie Reilly and Duke Special amongst many others.