Finally, Perth has a dedicated late night jazz club oozing with sophistication, swank and atmosphere. The Ellington Jazz Club opened earlier this year as the only late night music venue in Perth and since its opening, its reputation has grown rapidly to make it arguably the most popular jazz music venue in Perth. The historic old building on Beaufort Street in Mount Lawley has been transformed into a late night jazz club with ambience and atmosphere to rival the best in Australia. The calibre of performers that have graced the stage at The Ellington since its opening is indicative of the quality of the staff, the fine local food and wines served there and everything else this new and stylish venue has to offer.
October’s program is brimming with wonderful acts from both Australia and overseas, including an Ellington and Perth favourite, singer Ali Bodycoat, who will be performing on Saturday 3rd October from 8pm.
Pride WA, in conjunction with The Ellington, will be proudly presenting Dan the Audition on Monday 5th October. Written by and starring Dan Sinfield, it is the story of a budding young performer and the trials and tribulations he faces on his rise to the top. Don’t miss this unique original theatre gem.
Another gig not to be missed will be the dynamic singer Victoria Newton and the irresistible sounds of Jamie Oehlers on saxophone. These two award winning performers will be presenting a night of new arrangements of jazz repertoire together for the first time as duo in Perth.
A very exciting event on the Ellington calendar is Soho Night on Tuesday 13th October, featuring Martin and Tom Duck. These talented brothers, hailing from Melbourne, will present an exciting array of both original pieces and much loved jazz classics. A great way to spend a normally quiet Tuesday night!
Thursday 15th October will be a night of inspirational big band jazz, with the lovely ladies of Birdland singing for you the swinging sounds of big band and funky Latin rhythms. This experienced and talented singing trio (Sue Bluck, Jenny Wrenn and Kerry Byrom-Carter), along with the Mike Nelson Quartet, with have you tapping your feet and salsa-ing in your seat.
June Smith has an infectious charm about her and, coupled with her gorgeous singing voice and some of the most experienced jazz musos in Perth making up The Apple Band, Friday 16th October at The Ellington is one to mark in the diary.
Joe Chindamo will be on show at The Ellington on Wednesday 21st October and, as one of Australia’s most popular and decorated pianists, this is a night of jazz genius not to be missed.
Friday 23rd and Saturday 24th October are key dates to remember also – James Flynn, a jazz vocalist combining the styles of Sinatra, Nat King Cole and Michael Buble, will combine with some of Perth’s finest string and jazz musicians for two nights of musical heaven.
The perfect preparation before the mischief of the Pride parade will be to head to The Ellington on Friday 30th October and chill out to the smooth sounds of the Penny King Quintet, as she and some of Perth’s finest musos entertain you with some classic jazz tunes.
For more information about all of these gigs and more, head to the website: www.ellingtonjazz.com.au
Rebecca Daniels
You can catch Rebecca Daniels performing with David Gray at the upcoming GLCS fundraiser ‘Sweet’ on October 18th at the Court Hotel.
