Performers come out for special concert

Some of Australia’s favorite entertainers from the worlds of musical theatre and cabaret are set to celebrate the music of legendary composer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim at this year’s Sydney World AIDS Day concert.

Some of Australia’s favorite entertainers from the worlds of musical theatre and cabaret are set to celebrate the music of legendary composer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim at this year’s Sydney World AIDS Day concert.

With several performers still to be confirmed, the all-star lineup includes David Harris (Little Women, Miss Saigon) Geraldine Turner (Chicago, A Little Night Music, Into The Woods), Lucy Durack (Wicked, Pictured), and Trevor Ashley (Hairspray, I’m Every Woman). 

Playing for one night only on Monday, November 22 in the stunning Verbruggen Hall at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, the bill will also include Shaun and Adam Rennie, Queenie Van de Zandt, Laura Mulcahy, Avigail Herman, Tyran Parke and Phil Scott.

All performers will be backed by a 30-piece orchestra.

For the third year running, concert creator Trevor Ashley will direct the performers and Craig Renshaw will direct the music for the gala performance.

All performers and musicians are doing the show for free with all proceeds helping ACON (formerly AIDS Council of NSW) provide essential health promotion services for people with HIV.

ACON Events Coordinator David Wilkins says the music of Stephen Sondheim is a natural choice for Sydney’s World AIDS Day concert.

“Stephen Sondheim is celebrating his 80th birthday this year and it seems only fitting that we should mark the occasion with an all-star tribute to this phenomenal artist,” he said.

“He is undoubtedly one of the most influential people in the history of musical theatre and his work has entertained millions of people all around the world for over 50 years.

“Sondheim’s wonderful music being performed by so many great entertainers and all backed by a live orchestra will produce a truly memorable show for people of all ages.”

Mr Wilkins said this year’s concert follows the success of the two previous annual fundraisers.

“The support we received last year was overwhelming and we’re looking forward to making this year’s show even bigger and better,” he said.

To book tickets for the event, call (02) 9206 2062.