Newark Jazz Nights Set to Enchant Audiences in 2026

Live jazz nights in Newark are set to continue into 2026, with organizers aiming to establish the events as a beloved feature of the town’s entertainment offerings. Launched last summer by musician Andrew Wood and his partner Lara Waldrom, Newark Jazz has quickly gained popularity, notably with a well-attended event in October.

To kick off 2026, Newark Jazz is presenting two exciting shows. The first event will be held on January 30, 2026, featuring acclaimed UK jazz saxophonist Tony Kofi. Known for his expressive and dynamic style, Kofi has earned multiple awards and has performed with some of the most esteemed names in British jazz. His quartet will pay tribute to genre-defining musicians such as John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins, and Sam Rivers. Doors will open at 19:00, with the performance starting at 20:00. Tickets are available through Eventbrite.

Following Kofi’s performance, the house band from Nottingham’s Peggy’s Skylight jazz club will take the stage on March 13, 2026. This show, titled “Disney Meets Jazz,” promises an entertaining evening featuring beloved Disney songs reimagined with a jazz twist. Audiences can look forward to renditions of classics such as “Ev’rybody Wants to Be a Cat” and “You’ve Got a Friend in Me.” Tickets for this event can also be purchased via Eventbrite.

Andrew Wood has previously organized a similar successful event in Stamford in 2018, which has since blossomed into a popular fixture. He and Lara Waldrom are optimistic about replicating that success in Newark.

In a joint statement regarding the future of Newark Jazz, the organizers expressed their desire for the events to become a staple in the community. “We’d love Newark Jazz to feel like a real fixture at the Town Hall — something people recognize and genuinely look forward to,” they stated.

They emphasized the beauty of the venue and the special atmosphere it creates for each event. The organizers hope to cultivate a regular audience and have already noticed signs of community interest after just two shows.

“We’ve loved meeting people and discussing what they’d like to see in the future,” they added. “We want to put on events people truly want, and audience input is a big part of that. We have numerous ideas for future events and aim to showcase both local and national jazz talent.”

The positive feedback received thus far has encouraged the team, as they look forward to the upcoming shows and the opportunity to further engage with the community.