Australian star of stage and screen Tom Burlinson is making a grand return to Kedron-Wavell this month with his latest show, Still Swingin’.
Known for his iconic role in The Man From Snowy River and his remarkable portrayals of Frank Sinatra on stage, Tom is set to perform an unforgettable tribute to the legends of vocal swing music.
Accompanied by the Sydney All Star Big Band, Tom will pay homage to Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Tony Bennett, Nat King Cole, Sammy Davis Jr and Bobby Darin, as well as modern favourites like Harry Connick, Jr and Michael Buble.
“I’m really looking forward to returning to Chermside for another night of classic songs, fine music and entertainment,” Tom said.
“We’ve had some terrific nights in the showroom at Kedron-Wavell in the past years. It’s a great venue in which to perform.”
Celebrating Swing Legends with Authentic Sound
Tom said the Sydney All Star Big Band included some of the best musicians in the country, including trumpeter Ralph Pyl, who had been his “music right-hand man” for more than 25 years.
“The musical arrangements we have are based on the originals, so the sound is very authentic,” he said. “The combination of trumpets, trombones, saxophones and rhythm instruments is very powerful.”
Still Swingin’ features one great song after another, including audience favourites Sway and Feeling Good.
“The oldest song in the show, The Birth of the Blues (one of several signature songs of Sammy Davis Jr) always gets a strong response,” Tom said. “The new additions, including The More I See You are being received with enthusiasm.
“Over the years I’ve observed many audience members being ‘transported’ through the memories of their lives as they react to each of these classic songs. The expressions of joy are a wonderful pleasure to receive.”
The show also features a selection of Frank Sinatra songs. Reflecting on the influence of Sinatra on his own career, Tom said Sinatra’s ability to understand, interpret and communicate the emotions contained in the songs had enthralled and inspired him for most of his life.
“He could also swing with the best of them,” he said. “For me, he is the greatest.”
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