The acclaimed theatrical concert
ROLLING THUNDER VIETNAM
comes to Brisbane and the Gold Coast in one week
'An absolutely rocking piece of theatre' - Sunday Times
'A musical and dramatic triumph' - Herald Sun
'Electrifying…the show reaches deep into the soul' - ABC Radio
The sensational Australian concert drama Rolling Thunder Vietnam – Songs That Defined A Generation returns for three concerts only in Brisbane and the Gold Coast on March 18, 19 and 21.
Rolling Thunder Vietnam showcases an outstanding cast, including Toby Francis (Once, Kinky Boots), Annie Aitken (Thoroughly Modern Mille), Matt Pearce (Rent, Calamity Jane) and Brisbane's own Tom Oliver (Velvet).
The powerful production, comprising brilliant songs, stunning video footage and an emotive story, has become one of the most talked about musical and theatrical events since its world premiere in 2014. It is a vibrant and stirring show with humanity and heart. The Director of the Australian War Memorial, Dr Brendan Nelson, is Patron of the Rolling Thunder Vietnam tour in 2020.
"The show brings to life stories of courage, endurance, sacrifice and love in the context of the Vietnam War," Dr Nelson said. "The soundtrack of the show is the pulse of this generation; music that is magnificent and uplifting… Rolling Thunder Vietnam should be seen not just by the men and women who were young in the '60s and '70s but by their children and grand-children. To see this show is to understand us, who we are now, and one of the most significant events that changed and shaped us."
Under the musical direction of Chong Lim, Rolling Thunder Vietnam earned plaudits from audiences and critics alike. In an era of political uncertainty and terrorist attacks, the show about social unrest, uncertainty, loss and the value of connection, is as resonant and timely as ever.
The soul-stirring production features many of the greatest rock songs ever written and produced, including classics by John Fogerty, Steppenwolf, Buffalo Springfield, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Kris Kristofferson, Gladys Knight and Paul Simon. They include, Fortunate Son, The Letter, Magic Carpet Ride, Help Me Make it Through the Night, Born to Be Wild and Bridge Over Troubled Water.
Producer Rebecca Blake said that the unique show had formed a special relationship with audiences since bursting on the scene at QPAC in 2014.
"The great songs of the era and the passionate story of resilience and love at the heart of Rolling Thunder struck a chord with audiences throughout Australia. Since 2016, many people have kept asking when the production would return.
"The incredibly emotional responses from the Vets and their families have been overwhelming, and it's an honour to bring the show that has come to mean so much to them, back to the stage next year… The production appeals to a wide audience and young audiences love the music and storytelling as much as anyone."
In its evocation of conscription, turmoil, protest and homecoming, Rolling Thunder Vietnam draws audiences inside the lives of young men on the battlefront and their families and loved ones at home. The Vietnam War was the world's first televised war and gave rise to many of the most unforgettable songs of the 20th century.
Rolling Thunder Vietnam, written by Bryce Hallett (Freeway – The Chet Baker Journey) and directed by David Berthold (outgoing Brisbane Festival artistic director), was inspired by numerous interviews with Vietnam War veterans, actual letters and historic research.
South East Queensland Venues and Dates
BRISBANE
VENUE QPAC Concert Hall
SEASON Wednesday 18 and Thursday 19 March
TIMES: Matinee Thurs 1pm & Evening Wed 7pm
TICKETS From $79.90
BOOKINGS QTIX 136 246 or qpac.com.au
GOLD COAST
VENUE The Star Gold Coast
SEASON Saturday 21 March
TIMES: 8pm
TICKETS From $79.90
BOOKINGS thestargoldcoast.com.au or Ticketek Box office 07 5592 8303
