Our first guest of 2025 is a familiar face to regulars at Folk@The Fitz. Born and raised in New Plymouth, Neil Cleaver started playing drums for money at age 13, playing at cabarets and country dances, and was part of a Shadows cover band at Spotswood College. He was introduced to folk music while studying at Palmerston North Teachers College, spending his money on records by Bob Dylan, Tom Rush, The Jim Kweskin Jug Band and Leadbelly. Over the next 25 years or so, he formed an enthusiasm for New Zealand-based songs and began to write his own, which he performed alongside covers.
A seasoned performer at folk festivals over the years, the Taranaki Boy returns home after a couple of decades away, with a collection of original songs, plus some of his favourites by other writers. Neil also has a few stories to tell along the way.
As usual at Folk @ The Fitz, the first half will feature invited floor singers. Neil will perform the entire second half.
3pm, Sunday 23 February. Entry $10 on the door
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