Belgian singer-songwriter Jacques Brel was adored by generations, and inspired some of the music industry's biggest icons.
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His life and work will be played out in song in Jacques Brel is Alive and Well and Living in Paris next week at the Mittagong Playhouse.
The production will be presented by CMS (Clare Macarthur-Stanham) Productions and directed by Miranda Musical Society patron Geraldine Turner.
Mrs Turner said the production was an ode to the life and work of the performer.
“The way I put it together, I take the audience on a journey through his music,” she said.
“It’s really a revue of Jacques Brel’s music.
“All of the dialogue is strung together seamlessly.”
Brel experienced a career boom in Paris in the 50s, and from that peak his music reached audiences internationally.
His best known work Ne Me Quitte Pas was covered by artists such as Frank Sinatra, Barbara Streisand, David Bowie and Marc Brel.
When Brel delivered his works to an audience, he was praised for his raw and emotional approach.
Mrs Turner said Brel’s lyrics encompassed a broad spectrum of emotions and experiences.
“It’s just wonderful music,” Mrs Turner said.
“There’s fabulous love songs, songs about regret, anger and war, and funny songs as well.”
She also said the show was definitely one for the musical enthusiasts.
“If you love musicals, you’ll love Jacques Brel,” she said.
“This show is a classic and a special night in the theatre. You’d be mad to miss it.”
The cast will include Jennifer Parbery, Margaret Short, Anne-Marie Fanning, Gavin Leahy, Andrew Symes and Tim Wotherspoon.
The story will come to life at the Mittagong Playhouse from Thursday, August 17 to Saturday, August 19 at 7.30pm and on Saturday, August 19 at 3pm.
The show was previously performed at the Riverside Studio in Parramatta.
This is the first time a producer outside of Sydney is presenting the show.
Tickets range from $35 to $40. Visit www.cmsproductions.com.au or the Tourist Information Centre, 62 to 70 Main Street, Mittagong to purchase tickets.