By Lucy Waldron
Back for another year, the Late Shift Big Band is making their show in Stanthorpe an annual event for all to enjoy.
The Brisbane band, known for their energetic mix of jazz, Latin, funk, and rock, will be performing at the Stanthorpe Civic Centre on 17 August.
Ed Suttie, a member of The Late Shift Big Band said the tradition started back in 2019 when they played at the Stanthorpe Regional Art Gallery for a charity event.
“Choosing to support the local rural fire brigade since that was the year of the fires, we raised $1,500 from donations at the door, and that amount was matched, giving the fire brigade $3,000 to buy new radios for their truck,” Mr Suttie said.
The success of that initial performance sparked the idea to make it an annual event. Although the 2020 performance was cancelled due to COVID-19, the band returned in 2021 with a big concert at the Stanthorpe Civic Centre, raising funds for the gallery’s annual art prize.
“Since then, it’s become a yearly tradition,” Mr Suitte said.
“We usually play around August, and the Civic Centre is always packed.
“The response from the community has been fantastic.”
The evening promises a little bit of something for everyone with the first set laid-back dinner music vibes and then the second set is upbeat and sure to get everyone out on the dance floor.
For the band, the trip to Stanthorpe is one of the highlights of their year.
“We just love coming back. The people of Stanthorpe are so welcoming, It feels like coming home,” Mr Suttie said.
“It’s our favourite gig of the year, and we’re looking forward to entertaining both familiar faces and hopefully some new ones.:
Doors open at 6:30 pm, with the band playing two sets: the first from 7:00 to 8:00 pm, and the second from 8:30 to 9:30 pm. Lead vocalists Akash Rooney and Lillia Vickers will be front and centre, delivering a dynamic range of music that’s sure to get the crowd moving.
Tickets for the event are priced at $35 per person, or $280 for a table of eight. Guests will be seated at tables of eight, so purchasing a full table ensures you can sit with your group.
For more information visit srag.org.au/events/2024/8/17/late-shift-big-band
