Back in 2011, singer songwriter Minnie Birch couldn’t believe it when she won a competition to support Joan Armatrading at her gig at Watford Colosseum. But now that she has been invited to open up for the musical legend again, it looks like luck had nothing to do with it.

Minnie – known by day as Watford Central librarian Emily Jacques – will be opening for Joan on two dates of her tour at the Gordon Craig Theatre in Stevenage next week. This is alleged to be Joan’s last major tour of her career, and Minnie feels privileged to be a part of it.

“I am a fan of Joan’s music, and really admire all the work she does to give unknown artists opportunities to shine. Lots of lovely opportunities arose out of playing with Joan back in 2011 so I am really excited about the shows.”

The opportunities playing with Joan have given rise to include having national radio play on BBC Radio 1 and Radio 2, touring America, and playing at several music festivals across the UK. She is currently working on her first full-length album.

  • Minnie is performing at the Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage on Friday, October 24 and at The Boot, St Albans on Wednesday, October 29. Details: facebook.com/minniebirch