The story of iconic Soul legend, Etta James, is being brought back to Sydney for one week only, Tuesday 12th till Sunday 17th July. Following its world premiere in Melbourne 2013, At Last the Etta James Story has toured Australia twice with repeated sold-out performances.
This triumphant show portrays the stormy life of Etta James from her first hit song at age 16, where her provocative song title “Roll With Me Henry” was edited to the PG-friendly “Wallflower”, spanning through the incredible six decades of her music career.
Vika Bull, of Vika and Linda / Black Sorrows fame belts out some of Ms James’ most beloved songs, not as Vika trying to be Etta, but as Vika Bull doing Etta James, live on stage. The impact of this is quite strong and allows fans, both old and new to fall in love again with Etta James’ vast repertoire and enjoy the stand out performance of Vika Bull.
“I’d Rather Go Blind”, “Tell Mama,” and “A Sunday Kind of Love” are just some of the incredible songs that are called upon to carry us through Ms James’ life. Her song style evolved throughout her career moving beyond her early training as a gospel singer, through blues, soul, rock & roll, RnB, and all the way to pop music. Her personal addictions may have caused her trouble but they didn’t prevent her from earning 6 Grammy Awards, a Star on the Hollywood Walk and being inducted in the Blues Hall of Fame in 2001. We’re also treated with Vika’s rendition of “At Last”, which was given a Grammy Hall of Fame Award for ‘qualitative or historical significance’ in 1999.
Alongside Vika Bull are some of Australia’s finest and funkiest musicians of the Essential RnB Band. This seven-piece ensemble, led by John McAll, carry the brass, guitar, keyboards and rhythm boost to Vika Bull’s stunning performance.
Catch this incredible show as it sways through town next week with nightly performances at 8 pm and a weekend matinee at 2 pm Saturday and a final show 3 pm Sunday 17th July.
Tickets are on sale now and selling fast.
What: At Last the Etta James Story
Where: Drama Theatre, Sydney Opera House
When: Tuesday 12th July – Sunday 17th July
Tickets: $74 – $119
Website: www.sydneyoperahouse.com or www.ticketmaster.com.au
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