QPAC

We pay our respects to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ancestors of this land, their spirits and their legacy. The foundations laid by these ancestors give strength, inspiration and courage to current and future generations, both First Nations and non-First Nations peoples, towards creating a better Queensland.

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$65

1 hour 20 minutes

no interval, subject to change without notice

Embark on a musical journey with Songs from the Book of Life, a unique theatrical experience by Deborah Conway and Willy Zygier, based on Deborah’s recently released memoir, Book of Life.

Exploring their shimmering four-decade-long musical careers, the pair (mostly) play themselves as they chart a course through their own story of youth, rebellion, falling in love, ageing, money and music – revealing the details of one of the most powerful women to rock the Australian music industry.

Songs from the Book of Life is a tour-de-force told with unflinching honesty, humour and the reflexive desire to let it all hang out. Featuring original music and theatrical storytelling, this masterwork is directed by Michael Kantor and choreographed by Stephanie Lake, with set design by Chloe Greaves, video design by Nick Roux, lighting design by Stephen Hawker and sound engineering by Siiri Metsar.

About Deborah Conway

Deborah Conway is one of Australia’s most iconic musicians. She broke out in 80s pop outfit Do-Ré-Mi, whose smash hit “Man Overboard” became a feminist anthem, and went solo with her debut album String of Pearls, which yielded the classic single “It’s Only the Beginning”. She’s since written and recorded ten albums with her guitarist and partner, Willy Zygier.

About Willy Zygier

Willy Zygier is a composer, songwriter, arranger and producer who has worked extensively in film and television as well as composing large scale work for the Australian Art Orchestra. Over the last 30 years Conway and Zygier have released ten albums, produced four concerts of Broad (the all-female review that toured nationally between 2005 and 2008), and established a new music festival in Melbourne called Shir Madness (now known as FOJAM) held in 2015 and 2017.

Musically, Conway remains irresistible, as soulful and captivating as ever.

The Blurb
If Bob Dylan or Leonard Cohen delivered an album with songs as good as these, the critical response would be rapturous. Conway and Zygier deserve no less.

Courier Mail
Blessed with an angelic voice, deft at lyrical wordplay and armed with a seemingly inexhaustive melody well, Conway – and partner Zygier – create songs which become best friends for life.

Daily Telegraph