Opportunity knocks at the Queens Hotel

Established act Martyn James and Rob Richardson performing at the Queens in 2022

A host of new talent will be taking part in this summer’s Sunday Sessions at the Queens Hotel in Portsmouth.

Amber Sutka,11, was the youngest performer at the auditions and will be singing on July 9th

The hotel at the heart of the city is well known for hosting sultry summer vibes on a Sunday throughout the summer with some of the best-known local performers taking part.
Joining established acts such as Rachel Hawnt, Martyn James & Rob Richardson and Amba Tremain will be some talented new faces just setting out on the career path to stardom.

Head of Sales, Marketing & Events, Nicole Morris, explained: “Building on the success of last year’s Sunday Sessions, we wanted to offer new talent the opportunity to sing in front of the appreciative crowd that we regularly attract at the Queens.”

The judging panel included Queens Hotel General Manager Paul Playford, Julia Worsley PR and Marketing Officer at the Kings Theatre and music promoter, Nick Courtney.

Judging panel left to right: Paul Playford, Julia Worsley and Nick Courtney

Julia has acting experience in TV, film, radio and theatre, from Hollywood movies to independents, soaps to dramas.
She’s also had leading roles in West End productions of Les Miserables, Oliver and The Commitments.
“It was an absolute honour to be asked to represent The Kings Theatre at the auditions for the Sunday Sessions. I couldn’t believe how high the standard was, especially considering the age of some of the auditionees. We are so fortunate to have so much talent locally and it’s always rewarding to be able to help promote this.
“The Queens Hotel team are as committed as we are here at The Kings Theatre, to shining a spotlight on up-and-coming performers and opportunities such as the Sunday Sessions are a huge part of the journey towards a professional career for these young performers. I applaud the Queens for this initiative. I am very much looking forward to coming down to the Queens Hotel to watch the winners. The audiences really are in for a treat,” she said.

Nick Courtney added “It was a pleasure for me to attend and watch the rising stars auditions at the Queens Hotel. The standard was exceptionally high and many of those auditioning were far more than just rising stars or the up and coming artists that were expected to audition.
“Many already had years of experience despite their young age and just wanted to be seen and given the chance to perform in the beautiful Queens Hotel garden. It was really nice of them to give up their time and make the effort – hopefully everyone will enjoy their performances as much as we did.”