On one of the most significant nights for Albanian music in the diaspora, the legendary stage of Eventim Apollo welcomed a 100% Albanian production that made history.
The concert by Alban Skënderaj, part of his “Motiv i jetës time” tour, took place in one of the world’s most iconic live music venues a stage that has hosted names such as The Beatles, Queen and Adele. For the first time, an Albanian artist performed at this venue, in a sold-out concert that became a moment of pride for the Albanian community in the United Kingdom and beyond.
On this special evening, before the audience experienced the headline performance, the stage was opened by two artists who authentically represent the connection between Albanian and British culture: Altin Gjoni and Sara Payman.
Their performance created an intimate and emotional atmosphere, offering a natural and fitting introduction to a night that would remain in the audience’s memory.
Altin Gjoni is an internationally recognised guitarist, producer, and creative industry professional, with a career spanning between Tirana and London. He has collaborated with hundreds of international artists and performed on prestigious stages, including the Hammersmith Apollo itself. In addition to his artistic work, he is also the head of the British Albanian Culture & Arts Association, actively contributing to the promotion of Albanian culture on the international stage.
Alongside him, Sara Payman brings an equally compelling story. A British artist who has embraced Albania as part of her artistic identity, she performs Albanian music with remarkable sensitivity, demonstrating that a connection to a culture is shaped not only by origin, but also by dedication and genuine appreciation.
Together, Gjoni and Payman create an artistic dialogue that transcends linguistic and cultural boundaries a reflection of the very mission of the British-Albanian artistic community.
The evening at the Apollo was more than just a concert. It was proof that Albanian art not only belongs on international stages, but can fill them with dignity, quality, and identity.
