On 29 August from 4 pm, the VolXbühne – the community stage at the Theater an der Ruhr – kicks off the new season with an open-air event featuring three fantastic bands, light refreshments and drinks … we’re looking forward to this summery ‘kick-off’ to the new season – admission is free!

4.15 – 5.30 pm

QBAN SOUL (Düsseldorf, Cuba)

Majela van der Heusen – the multi-talented artist with a unique voice! Born in Havana, Cuba, she completed her music studies there at the renowned Conservatorio Amadeo Roldán.

Alongside her mother, Amparo Cesar, she learnt the secrets of traditional Cuban music from a very early age. Touring with various Cuban bands took her to Africa and Europe in 1999 – Düsseldorf has since become her adopted home. In 2016, Majela founded her band Qban Soul to fully unleash her entire musical range. The other musicians in the band are long-standing companions from Cuba and Spain, who effortlessly pick up on and interweave all the threads of musical tradition: flamenco meets pop and jazz, the sound of Buena Vista meets modern soul.

6.00 pm – 7.15 pm

THE SILVERETTES (Mülheim an der Ruhr)

“Rock & Roll meets Power Women Chic” – The Silverettes, local heroes from Mülheim, are guests at the VolXbühne with their fresh mix of classic rockabilly sounds, modern rock ’n’ roll and a dash of pop. Whether performing dynamic original compositions or sophisticated cover versions, the band captivates audiences with rousing vocals and an outstanding stage presence. Their five albums prove that rockabilly is no longer a male-dominated genre. They have been the support act for artists including Dick Brave and The Boss Hoss, and toured Japan in May 2026, playing to sold-out crowds in Tokyo, amongst other venues. We look forward to this concentrated dose of girl power.

Featuring: Honey (vocals), Jane (double bass, electric bass, saxophone, vocals), Ira (acoustic guitar, electric guitar, ukulele, accordion, vocals), Pomez di Lorenzo (electric guitar)

7.45 pm – 9.00 pm

TERRENCE NGASSA BAND (Cologne, Cameroon)

Following last year’s spectacular concert at the season opener, we are delighted to welcome back the internationally renowned and outstanding band led by the exceptional trumpeter, composer and bandleader Terrence Ngassa. We’ll be heading into the evening with this fiery blend of Afro-jazz, funk and world music. Crystal-clear tone, blistering solos, haunting and fluid melodies: Terrence Ngassa possesses an enormous range and impressive versatility on his instrument. His unbridled temperament and moving vocal delivery make his music a truly captivating experience.

Featuring: Terrance Ngassa (composition, vocals, trumpet), François Deribaupierre (saxophone), Jura Wajda (piano, bass), Benedikt Hesse (drums), Paply Ouro (percussion)

Date: 29 August 2026, 16:00 – 21:00

Venue: Open-air in front of the VolXbühne – Ensemble der Generationen at the Theater an der Ruhr, Adolfstr. 89a, 45 468 Mülheim an der Ruhr (indoors in case of bad weather)

TICKETS: No booking required, just turn up – admission is free! read less