Following the sold-out debut event earlier this year, the orchestral Northern Soul and Motown music event is back and is stomping its way to theatres later this year. The innovative Manchester Camerata and renowned composer Joe Duddell will perform the very best of Northern Soul and Motown at Blackpool Opera House on 25 August, Bridgewater Hall in Manchester on 2 November, and London’s O2 Shepherds Bush Empire on 3 November.

Out on the Floor features the big beat ballad and legendary all-nighter finisher, Long After Tonight is Over by Jimmy Radcliffe; Do I Love You by Frank Wilson, which originally pressed in 1965 and Ain't No Mountain High Enough by Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell, one of the most important records ever released by Motown.

Joe Duddell said: “The more I delve into the Northern Soul catalogue the more I think we have a duty to get these songs back out there with an orchestra as originally recorded. Uncovering the fantastic musicianship behind some of the original arrangements has been a privilege. At times I've stayed as faithful as possible to the originals, but I’ve also looked at certain songs from a fresh perspective.”

Glastonbury openers, UK Ensemble of the Year (RPS Music Awards 2017) and ‘Probably Britain’s most adventurous orchestra’ (The Times) – Manchester Camerata redefine what an orchestra can do. Famous for innovation, the orchestra pops up in all sorts of places, from concert halls to care homes, and collaborates with a spectrum of artists, from classical superstar Martha Argerich to iconic band, New Order and now stepping into the world of the much beloved Motown and Northern Soul.

Bob Riley, CEO Manchester Camerata said: “Camerata is all about the sound and energy of an orchestra in live performance, whatever the music we are playing. Joe is one of the best in the business and so to collaborate with him to find that instantly recognisable and distinctive Motown and Northern Soul sound will be a real treat.”

Once again, original Northern Soul DJ's Richard Searling and Colin Curtis from The Wigan Casino and Manchester's Twisted Wheel will DJ in the reception before the show and in the interval at The Bridgewater Hall. Richard Searling will also be DJ'ing at London O2 Shepherds Bush Empire which will have both seated and standing areas encouraging audiences to dance and share in the joy of this legendary musical experience. DJ Richard Searling said: “Out on the Floor is visually, soulfully and musically stunning - great songs given a unique orchestral vibrancy.”

DJ Colin Curtis added: “Manchester Camerata take you on an emotional journey that is the soulful soundtrack to your life. Out on the Floor is an unmissable cohesion of Northern Soul and The Motown Sound.”

Tickets for these very special evenings of Northern Soul and Motown go on sale Friday 1st June at 9am.