Don your best forties frock and flip your wig back and forth to the vintage sounds of The Bluebirds!
Think glam gear, war-time classics and vintage vocals. The Bluebirds are a close harmony trio performing all things forties.
They’re heading to the Toon for a nostalgic 1940s Canteen Dance Party this September. NE1 check in to find out about their vintage vibe, their favourite Geordies and their memorable Tyneside moments.
How did you meet?
Ami and Gina were dancers on a cruise ship and shared a cabin together. And Sarah and Gina did a UK tour together in a show called ‘Pop Goes the 80s’. Gina introduced Ami and Sarah and the rest is history.
What inspired the vintage vibes?
The sounds – they definitely suit our voices as a trio. It’s a niche thing and it’s something different, but it is becoming a really popular theme for events and celebrations throughout the year – which is great for us.
Favourite tracks to perform?
We’ve all got different favourites. Gina loves Bluebirds and Ami likes Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy. Quite a few of them are cheeky songs so they’re really fun, especially when we can add a couple of dance moves in – although sometimes we look like a trio version of Morecambe and Wise!
Talk us through your uniform?
The military uniform is a traditional one but we’ve deliberately not tied to a country. We do a lot of English and American stuff so we wanted it to be neutral - but we also wanted it to be a bit bling so we got it pimped up a little with glitzy decorations.
Is vintage your go-to style away from work?
Actually, yes – because it’s so in trend. A high-waisted trouser with a t-shirt and a big belt is a big look at the moment – and it’s very 1940s. You’ll never see Ami without a bright red lip and sometimes she rocks a headscarf too. So we all have little statement pieces that set us apart as artists.
NE1 plans?
We’re all really looking forward to a trip to the Toon! We all love it here. The city itself just has a buzz about it. We’ve all been to the races and had a couple of night outs up here – so there are lots of good memories. We might plan to get here a bit earlier – so we can get a few trebles in (maybe not before the show!).
We definitely want to spend a day at the Life Centre. We used to come on school trips here so it’s a bit of a blast from the past.
We’re also looking forward to a bit of shopping in Eldon Square and a walk along the Quayside, checking out some of the lovely bars and restaurants.
Will you be hitting the vintage shops in NE1?
Definitely, we’ve heard good things about the shopping here.
What can people expect from the 1940s Canteen Dance Party in September?
It’s full of energy and if you’re a foodie, you’ll be glad to hear there’s a really cool ration-inspired meal included. It’s 1940s from the start and we’re encouraging everyone to get dressed up. There’s a prize for best dressed!
Best Newcastle moments?
Gina: “I remember going out one winter and obviously you don’t take a coat or anything up here. I actually cried I was so cold! But it was just so normal for everyone else. Everyone seems to be able to hack it!”
“I used to go to all the football matches too – there’s such a good vibe on a game day up here. The city is just buzzing all day.”
Set list?
It’s mainly 1940s music but we do cross over into the 1950s now and we even slip some 60s bits in there sometimes. We cover some modern songs but we try to keep it in a vintage, 1940s style. So we’ll do things like Nicki Minaj with a vintage twist!
Favourite Geordie?
Ant and Dec! Can we pick two?
Oh and one more… Alan Shearer– he’s very good on Match of the Day.
Also, is it shameful to say the cast of Geordie Shore? Not very 1940s but hey ho!
We also love Little Mix!
For more information on the girls' Canteen Dance Party visit: www.life.org.uk
