THE iconic sounds of Neil Diamond and Olivia Newton-John will grace the stage of The Glasshouse for one night in July, with Australian music royalty Marty Rhone producing the show.
It was a pleasure to interview him for this week’s edition of Port Mac Goss.
Marty, coming up in July your first Australian hit record “Denim and Lace” turns 50! Can you believe it?
No, I cannot! It has all gone too quickly. Stop the world, I want to get off!
In 1977 you followed it up with another hit record, Mean Pair of Jeans, and during that era you appeared in Godspell, legendary TV show Number 96, and Class of 75. You also appeared in the London Theatre production of The King & I, alongside Yul Brynner – you must have fond memories.
I have great memories of working with Yul Brynner at the London Palladium, it was one of the highlights of my career. I am also thrilled to hear that Number 96 is coming back onto our TV screens. My character was Dean McDonald in this iconic TV show.
You are still actively working as a performer, particularly with your Cliff Richards tribute show, however your time these days is mostly taken up with producing and presenting top class shows. Tell me about that transition.
I still love performing, however I am really enjoying producing shows that people want to go and see. If I go to a live performance, I want to be excited, moved, feel the vibe and the experience that I have experienced over the years and I want them to feel the same.
I know how excited you are about bringing “Hottest Hot August Night” to The Glasshouse in July, what can people expect?
They can expect one of the best retro bands in the world, with two of the best performers/singers in Australia in Michael Zammit and Jenn Allas. Close your eyes and you would swear that you were listening to Olivia and Neil Diamond. They are that good! This show is touring July and August around Australia and the audience of The Glasshouse will see something very special.
By Dave ‘Scoop’ LAZARUS
