To celebrate the launch of its new Press for Showtime series, chart-topping artist Rag ’n’ Bone man will play an intimate gig at one of the iconic brand’s London venues on December 4(Image: Rag’n’Bone Man / PizzaExpress / Cover Images)

Rag’n’Bone Man teams up with Pizza Express to deliver perfect Christmas treat

by · Wales Online

A delicious pizza or bowl of pasta, a couple of Peroni’s and a private performance by Rag’n’Bone Man could prove to be the perfect Christmas treat. PizzaExpress is spreading holiday cheer to customers across the nation, with free pop-up performances by a host of stars of song and pantomime.

To celebrate the launch of its new Press for Showtime series, chart-topping artist Rag ’n’ Bone man will play an intimate gig at one of the iconic brand’s London venues on December 4. Fresh from his sold-out UK and European tour, the Human and All You Ever Wanted singer will serenade diners at PizzaExpress Live to herald the start of a fortnight of magical entertainment events across its restaurants.

It follows a tradition dating back to 1976 which has seen stars including Amy Winehouse, Van Morrison, Jamie Cullum and Gregory Porter sing to diners as they enjoyed their supper at ticketed events at London’s Dean Street venue and Pizza on the Park. Founder Peter Boizot was a jazz lover and constantly sought ways to include music in his restaurants. PizzaExpress Live presents 1,500 shows in multiple branches all year round.

Recent YouGov research commissioned by the chain revealed that over half (56%) of families are cutting back on festive outings this year and 41% are planning to forgo traditional Christmas experiences and events all together. However, the money-can’t-buy Rag ’n’ Bone man gig will be accessible by a free ticket ballot open now until Sunday 1st December.

Paula Mackenzie, PizzaExpress CEO, added: “PizzaExpress is the home of family celebrations, so we wanted to create something truly special to spread some holiday cheer whilst dining with us this festive period. The Press for Showtime series is about bringing people together over great food and live entertainment at time when celebrations are firmly on the menu, so we’re thrilled to have Rag’n’Bone Man help us kick it off in style.”

The series will continue through December, enabling diners to experience unforgettable entertainment, as it welcomes some of the country’s favourite festive performances – from world-renowned Christmas choirs and pantomime characters – to its pizzerias this December.

Events include:

  • Cardiff, Monday 9th December – John’s Boys Male Chorus
  • Leeds, Wednesday 11th December – Beauty and the Beast presented by Paul Holman Associates and Carriageworks Theatre
  • Birmingham, Friday 13th December – Symphonic Six and Friends