Claire Martin and Richard Stilgoe, Brasserie Zédel

The dazzling art deco surroundings of the Crazy Coqs bar at Brasserie Zédel could scarcely provide a more suitable backdrop for a week of Paris-themed cabaret. Claire Martin – critically acclaimed for her smoky, sensual vocals – will be performing a selection of songs inspired by the city, accompanied by the pianist Joe Stilgoe, who’s made a name for himself in recent years with his jazz-inflected interpretations of popular music. 

The programme is redolent of the 20s and 30s, with tunes from George Gershwin and Cole Porter, Charles Trenet and Maurice Chevalier. It’s always a pleasure to hear this music being performed well – and Martin and Stilgoe have just the right mixture of verve and sensitivity to carry it off. In order to prevent a full-blown nostalgia-fest, though, there’ll be a more modern element, with re-workings of Joni Mitchell and Jacques Brel. 

If you haven’t been to Brasserie Zédel before, then you have reason enough to go to this gig. It’s an unusual venue, exuding authentic, old-fashioned glamour, and the perfect place for a cocktail or two – though you’ll have to resist the urge to spark up a Sobranie.