**PLS NOTE: DOORS OPEN AT 7PM FOR A 7.30PM SHOWTIME**

**(SHOW DURATION IS 7.30PM-9.30PM)**

  

**The Robert Simone Big Band**

  

The Robert Simone Big Band was formed in November 2010 to perform as part of Robert’s end-of-year Honours recital at the Victorian College of the Arts (VCA). Its sole purpose was to perform and highlight Robert’s unique arranging and composing style.

  

Made up of some of Australia’s greatest musicians, the band has continued to grow from that first performance, regularly appearing at a number of Melbourne’s premier venues and festivals. Showcasing Robert’s original compositions and arrangements, the band recorded a live EP in 2012 (Live at Bennetts Lane) and continues to perform to this day.

  

**About Our Singers**

  

**Shannen Wick**

  

With her rich songwriting and powerful vocal abilities, Shannen Wick is reminiscent of the energetic queens of soul music past. Known as the leading lady and founder of Fulton Street, Shannen is a key player in Melbourne’s thriving soul music scene.

  

Starting her singing career at a young age in the National Children’s Choir, Shannen went on to study under renowned vocal coach Tania G (Vocal Artistry), performing at venues such as Ormond Hall and Chapel Off Chapel.

  

In 2012, Shannen founded Fulton Street. As a singer-songwriter and manager, she has led the band through thriving residencies and major shows at Melbourne’s most iconic live venues. Fulton Street has received airplay on Triple J, ABC, and PBS, and performed at festivals including Riverboats Festival, Moomba Festival, Boogie Festival, Tasmanian Wine Festival, Caloundra Music Festival, Brunswick Music Festival, St Kilda Festival, Melbourne Music Week, Stonnington Jazz Festival, and Bluesfest sideshows.

  

In 2019, Shannen launched her own independent record label, Stoic Records, with long-term band member and friend Jamie Stroud. The label champions diverse voices from across the community, releasing music from artists such as Lauren Brydie, Mama T, Dive Team 5, and Yirgjhilya.

  

2024 marked a career highlight for Shannen with the release of her debut solo single Love Dressed Down, which received multiple international nominations for Best Music Video. That same year saw the release of Fulton Street’s sophomore album Hard Truths and Shannen’s appearance on The Voice Australia (Season 13).

  

**Rhys Tolhurst**

  

Rhys Tolhurst is an Australian singer, songwriter, and entertainer with a warm, velvet voice and a natural flair for connecting with audiences. He is one of the lead vocalists for Dancing With The Stars (Channel 7) and a featured performer in the national tour of Dirty Dancing in Concert (2025).

  

Known for his captivating mix of charm, humour, and classic showmanship, Rhys has performed at major events, theatres, and festivals across Australia. His sold-out jazz show A Swing Affair has featured at Melbourne’s Paris Cat Jazz Club and Brisbane Jazz Club, and he is set to headline Morning Melodies at Hamer Hall in 2026.

  

**Georga Byrne**

  

With a wealth of experience that has illuminated stages, screens, and studios for over two decades, Georga Byrne emerges as a versatile performer with an engaging and captivating stage presence.

  

Georga has graced the stages of The Paris Cat Jazz Club, Bird’s Basement, Bennetts Lane, and The Brisbane Jazz Club, performing alongside some of Australia’s leading musicians. Her international career has taken her to Universal Studios Japan, where she played the lead role, and to festivals in Panama, America, and Europe, as well as five-star hotels and luxury cruises throughout Hong Kong, Vietnam, and across Asia, where her smooth, soulful sound continues to enchant audiences.

  

Some of her credits include L’Oréal Melbourne Fashion Week, performing in the VIP lounges for Adele, Pink, and Beyoncé, the Melbourne International Jazz Festival, and guest appearances with the Daryl McKenzie Jazz Orchestra. Georga has also supported Marcia Hines and Kate Ceberano, and sung with Phil Ceberano, Wendy Stapleton, and Mike Brady for the Anzac Day Match at the MCG. She has performed live with her jazz band on Channel 9’s The Block and appeared on stage at prestigious events including the Australian Open, Melbourne Cup, and Formula 1 Grand Prix.

  

Whether performing with her jazz trio or six-piece band, Georga’s artistry blends elegance, warmth, and sophistication. She is thrilled to be returning to the stage with the Rob Simone Big Band, performing alongside two of her favourite vocalists — Rhys Tolhurst and Shannen Wick.

  

  

**Genre - Big Band Jazz/Swing**

The Robert Simone Big Band

Event Description

The Robert Simone Big Band Ft. Shannen Wick, Rhys Tolhurst & Georga Byrne