Seeing an Opera Queensland performance within the halls of QPAC and seeing an Opera Queensland performance within the intimate walls of the Opera Queensland Studio are two very different experiences. Songs That Made Me performed by Jess Hitchcock and Trevor Jones is a special evening that features a collection of songs that will melt away your worries.
Jess Hitchcock is a rising star to look out for, recently performing alongside Kate Miller-Heidke in the Eurovision Song Contest in Israel. During the show, Hitchcock gives the audience a glimpse into her life, growing up with origins in the Torres Straits and Papua New Guinea and trying to find her place in the world.
The performance was short and sweet but Hitchcock made it a personable and memorable experience with the way she weaved her way through the set list. From the jazzy ‘No More Blues’ to a moving rendition of ‘So Anyway’ from Next to Normal to original tracks from her album Bloodline, Hitchcock had the perfect balance between owning her vulnerability while keeping a mellow and soft, almost velvety smooth, tone and was the perfect way to wind down after a long week.
Hitchcock enjoys making the room feel comfortable in her presence and doesn’t hesitate to pause the show and interact with her beloved crew members or humor the audience in between songs. This upcoming artist has a promising future and I can’t wait to see what comes next for her, whether that be a collaboration with other big names in the music industry or representing Australia in the next Eurovision Song Contest. Songs That Made Me showcased the talents of Hitchcock and if you would like to hear more of her you can stream her music on Spotify or YouTube.
Opera Queensland has a lot more coming up this year so be sure to learn more at https://www.oq.com.au/whats-on/ Don’t miss out on the opportunity to hear some amazing voices you may not have heard of otherwise. The Opera Queensland Studio Series focuses on showcasing the talents of local and international artists, seasoned and upcoming. Why not expand your horizons and hear what you have been missing?
Joanna Letic