A tribute to Aretha
Image: Aretha Franklin
Aretha Franklin recently topped the Rolling Stone list of the 200 greatest singers of all time. No one disputed it. It is possibly one of the few things that can find consensus in the subjective, multi-genre world of popular music. Franklin’s influence has and continues to be pervasive, and her music is evergreen. That music will find new interpretation for a new audience when The Sydney Opera House in association with Peter Rix presents ARETHA: A Love Letter to the Queen of Soul.
Part tribute show, part biopic, ARETHA will present the personal story of Aretha Franklin, from the early impressions she made singing gospel in the church where her father was minister, to a career that began in her teens and soared into the stratosphere only burning out when she died in 2018.
The talented and charismatic Jada Alberts, who is directing this show, will also play narrator, telling Franklin’s story through prose and song. Joe Accaria, who was recently turntable and dial master on the hit ‘70s inspired show, Velvet Rewired, will take the musical controls for ARETHA.
The featured performers who will undertake the mammoth task of honouring Franklins vocals include: 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; 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 is a recipient of The Balnaves Foundation Indigenous Playwright’s Award.
They’ll perform 32 songs immortalised by Franklin and marking significant points in her life and career.
A concert for all lovers of music.
June 17 & 18
Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point
www.sydneyoperahouse.com
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