‘The Essence of Eva Cassidy’ on Dutch television
Dutch fans of Eva Cassidy’s (1963–1996) music will finally be able to enjoy ‘The Essence of Eva’ on September 7th. This moving and illuminating documentary paints a beautiful and multifaceted portrait of this unconventional American singer and visual artist. Her renditions of songs such as ‘Over the Rainbow’, ‘Fields of Gold’ and ‘Songbird’ have become timeless classics. However, she never lived to see her worldwide success. She died at the age of 33 from skin cancer. The documentary ‘The Essence of Eva’ tells the story of a unique artist who always remained true to her musical vision.
Malcolm Willis, Hugh Cassidy, Barbara Cassidy, Alex Fegan
Eva Cassidy grew up in Maryland, where she was surrounded by music from an early age. In the early 1990s, she earned a living working at a plant nursery, but her passion lay elsewhere. Initially, she looked for work as a backing singer. Although she had a great love of music, being in the spotlight didn’t appeal to her at all and she was too shy to perform in front of strangers. But when Gogo performer Chuck Brown heard her talent, he recorded a duet album with her. After that, Cassidy toured local clubs and venues. Her music defied the confines of any single genre. Drawing on influences from folk, jazz, blues, gospel and pop, she developed a unique style. It was precisely this versatility that made record companies cautious: Cassidy did not fit easily into a commercial mould.
Mick Fleetwood in the Essence of Eva
On her own initiative, Cassidy recorded the live album ‘Live at Blues Alley’. A few months after its release, she began to experience pain in her hip. It turned out to be metastatic skin cancer. She passed away shortly afterwards.
It was not until two years after her death that Cassidy’s rendition of ‘Over the Rainbow’ found its way onto BBC Radio 2. Suddenly, a new, global audience discovered her extraordinary voice, and she became an international phenomenon.
Sir Terry Wogan
Drawing on interviews with the people who knew her best – including her parents, relatives, friends and musical collaborators – ‘The Essence of Eva’ paints an intimate portrait of her life. Featuring contributions from Mick Fleetwood and Sting, amongst others, the documentary explores the legacy of a singer who never let herself be constrained by genres, expectations or conventions.
Directors: Alex Fegan & Malcolm Willis
Producers: Alex Fegan, Malcolm Willis, Brendan Byrne
The Essence of Eva Cassidy
Monday 7 September 2026 at 10.45 pm on NPO 2
‘The Essence of Eva Cassidy’ is being broadcast in the Netherlands on ‘Het Uur van de Wolf’, (‘The Hour of the Wolf’) a documentary programme that explores various art forms. Colourful films by and about high-profile artists and performers; full of stories that reflect curiosity and a unique vision. Documentaries created through the power of imagination, which aim to inspire, connect, move and, ideally, make us think.
9 responses to “‘The Essence of Eva Cassidy’ on Dutch television”
Leave a Reply
Whenever this becomes available it will have been worth the wait, such a lovely lady Eva was humble, kind and caring, and talented too. Not a bad word about anything or anyone.
An absolute joy to see i am sure.
Why is Eva’s documentary being kept from us in the USA?
Where can I see this in Chicago, USA?
I have been a fan of Eva Cassidy’s for a long time. Her music is so timeless. I would love to be able to watch the Documentary in the States. Will it play here? Are there any plans for that?
The only countries that will broadcast the documentary this month are (as far as we know) Sweden and the Netherlands. We hope that American or English broadcasters will have the courage to do the same!
Hi Kelly, playing on PBS WETA from 25th August to 30th, 6 screenings I think. hopefully there will be more around the country in time.
Sadly discovered her in 1999. Loved her ever since. Still moving to this day. Condolences to her family. Condolences to my self and all who appreciate her gift.
When will her documentary be available in English for American audiences?
joaoblue17@icloud.com