ARETHA

A Love Letter to the Queen of Soul

Brisbane June 20 and 21, 2023

"A force of nature. A work of genius. A gift from the heavens" – Rolling Stones 

"What distinguishes her is not merely the breadth of her catalogue or the force of her vocal instrument, it's her musical intelligence,

her way of singing behind the beat, of spraying a wash of notes over a single word or syllable, of constructing moment by moment the emotional

power of a three‑minute song. 'Respect' is as precise an artefact as a Ming vase." David Remnick

ARETHA, a powerful memoir that celebrates the life and music of one of the greatest voices in history, will open in Brisbane in the Concert Hall at QPAC on June 21 and 21 June, following its World Premiere in the Sydney Opera House.

Through soulful storytelling, this unforgettable night of music and memories will honour the legacy of global superstar Aretha Franklin, who broke down barriers and paved the way for generations to come. An incredible evening of entertainment, this production will chart not only the music but the ups and downs of the Queen of Soul's extraordinary career. In a showcase of 32 songs and spoken narration, it will travel through time from her early gospel roots and rise to fame, to her legendary hits and lasting impact on music.

Tickets on sale Friday March 17 at 9am.

Narrated and directed by multi-talented First Nations actor Jada Alberts (Wentworth, Cleverman), with musical direction by Joe Accaria (Velvet Rewired), ARETHA features a line-up of outstanding Australian vocalists:

• Emma Donovan – legendary ARIA-nominated, award-winning, Gumbaynggirr and Yamatji singer/songwriter;

• Montaigne – celebrated singer/songwriter and unique art pop musician, who has evolved from young indie leader to one of Australia's most individual and dynamic voices;

• Thandi Phoenix – a vocal powerhouse with a unique tone, magnetic energy and commanding stage presence, Thandi has both a deep love of electronic music and artistic beginnings rooted in soul and R&B;

• THNDO – actor and singer/songwriter with range so rich and delivery so buttery and soulful she's considered Australia's 'First Lady of Soul and R&B'; and

• Ursula Yovich  – multi award-winning actor, singer and writer who starred in Belvoir's Barbara and the Camp Dogs and is a recipient of The Balnaves Foundation Indigenous Playwright's Award.

Director, Writer and Narrator Jada Alberts, said,  "Aretha Franklin is arguably the most accomplished and sublime soul vocalist the world has ever seen. I'm thrilled to direct this incredible line up of vocalists as they interpret some of the most iconic songs of the 20th century in their own unique way, paying respect to a woman who has influenced us all."

Jada was born and raised on their mother's country, Larrakia country (Darwin, NT), and has family ties to the Yanyuwa, Bardi and Wardaman peoples.

"What distinguishes her is not merely the breadth of her catalogue or the force of her vocal instrument, it's her musical intelligence, her way of singing behind the beat, of spraying a wash of notes over a single word or syllable, of constructing moment by moment the emotional power of a three‑minute song. 'Respect' is as precise an artefact as a Ming vase."

David Remnick

EVENT DETAILS

What:           ARETHA, A Love Letter to the Queen of Soul 

When:          20 and 21 June, 2023

Where:         Concert Hall at QPAC Brisbane  

Price:            From $95 + booking fee

On-sale:       9am, Friday 17 March, 2023 at qpac.com.au

AUSTRALIAN TOUR DETAILS

June 17 + 18 - Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House

June 20 + 21 - Concert Hall, QPAC

July 2 - Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne