enercity Swinging Hannover — Jazz Night

60 Years of Jazz Club Hannover

Jazz Club Hannover was founded in 1966, making it one of the oldest and most renowned jazz clubs in Germany. For over six decades, it has shaped Hannover's jazz scene – with hundreds of concerts, festivals, workshops, jam sessions, and educational programs. In 2026, the club celebrates its 60th anniversary with an expanded annual program that, for the first time, complements the traditional open-air event Swinging Hannover on Ascension Day with an opening evening Jazz Night at the Schauspielhaus.

Star Guest Nik West

Nik West is an American bassist, singer, and songwriter from Phoenix, Arizona. She gained recognition through her collaborations with Prince, with whom she performed as a member of his backing band, The New Power Generation. Her own music blends Funk, Rock, Soul, and Jazz into an energetic mix that is particularly impressive live. With her virtuosic bass playing, powerful voice, and charismatic stage presence, she has built a growing international fan base.

Schauspielhaus as an Intimate Concert Stage

The Schauspielhaus Hannover at Prinzenstraße 9 is one of the three major drama stages of the Lower Saxony State Theatres. With around 700 seats and excellent acoustics, it is also ideally suited for concerts. The seating arrangement encourages focused listening, and the stage dimensions allow for a full band lineup.

Prelude to a Double Event

The Jazz Night on Wednesday evening is the prelude to the major Swinging Hannover Open Air on Ascension Day (May 14, 2026). Those who attend both events will experience two very different formats: the intimate concert atmosphere of the Schauspielhaus with a focused seated concert on Wednesday – and the festival-like open-air experience with over 40,000 visitors under the open sky on Thursday.

Concert Start 7:30 PM

The concert begins at 7:30 PM. Admission from 6:30 PM. Bar in the foyer for a drink before the concert and during the intermission. The exact setlist will be announced by Nik West either in the program booklet or directly from the stage.