THE “proverbial travelling troubadour” has set his sights on Theatr Colwyn to share four decades worth of songcraft.

New Jersey musician Dean Friedman will gig in Colwyn Bay for the first time next month for a masterclass in poignant and profound songwriting.

Speaking to The Pioneer, Friedman said: “Before the printing press, TV, movie reels, and the internet, folks relied on the travelling troubadours to spread the latest news.

“I do believe that engaging an audience face to face - standing in the same room, breathing the same air - is the most profound and richest mode of communication that we’ve got, or will ever have.

“And if you listen to songs of mine like The Lakelands, The Baker’s Tale and The Ducks of St Stephen’s Green it’s clear that I’ve absorbed a lot of the narrative, storytelling tradition, endemic to this part of the of the word. Elaborate, sometimes tragic, sometimes funny, tales of people and distinct places in that rich troubadour tradition, which I’ve always felt a part of.

Friedman first marked his entry into pop consciousness with the Top 20 chart success of his infectious hit single, Ariel, an irresistible and uncategorisable pop song.

After exploding onto the scene, he went on to achieve legendary, pop-icon status for powerful, poignant and hilarious chart-toppers Lucky Stars, Lydia, McDonald’s Girl and more.

Over the years Friedman has continue to add strings to his bow. His stop in Colwyn Bay will come just before he makes his staggering 16th appearance at he Edinburgh Fringe Festival, where in addition to his regular concert runs, he’s written and produced several hit children’s musicals, including Smelly Feet – a children’s musical that really stinks!

Friedman added: “I’m just plying my trade as the proverbial travelling troubadour, grateful to be sharing my songs with what’s always an enthusiastic audience, and hoping they’re able to spend a few hours of respite from otherwise hectic lives, and are able to recognize themselves, even a little, in these musical stories I tell.”

“The evening will be a mix of early, familiar radio hits, along with some more obscure fan-favourites, as well as more recent material from my latest releases. A little bit of everything!”

Witness Friedman’s towering songwriting skill at Theatr Colwyn on Thursday, April 25 at 7.30pm.

Tickets are £25, with concessions available. To book visit theatrcolwyn.co.uk or call 01492 556677.