Details

A visceral celebration of music

About the concert

Trouble In Mind is a thoughtful and compassionate exploration of the lives of Bessie Smith, Billie Holiday, Nina Simone and Amy Winehouse. In the show, Lisa Engel, a psychologist as well as a performer, investigates the substance abuse and internal struggles that made their lives so difficult. Despite all their challenges, these four artists made an enormous contribution to Jazz and Blues music.

Interspersed in the show are some of the best-loved songs from the 1930s and 40s that became famous signature songs for these artists. Lisa’s rich contralto voice does them justice along with the brilliant accompaniment of Mark Fitzgibbon on piano, Paddy Fitzgerald on Bass and Alex Spicer on drums. Woven into the biographies of these artists are potted histories of race relations, the influence of the media and the double-edged sword of fame, providing a contextual backdrop to the songs.

COVID Safety

Melbourne Recital Centre is committed to the safety of our artists, staff and patrons. As we reopen, a range of public health, hygiene and physical distancing measures will be in place. Click here to learn more.

ARTISTS

Lisa Engel voice

Series

This production is part of the following series: