The theatre buzzed with excitement as ARIA Award-winner Anthony Callea and his husband, Tim Campbell, took the stage for their national tour, The Songs of Elton John and George Michael. While rain fell outside, the sold-out audience settled in for a night celebrating the music of pop icons Elton John and George Michael.
From the show’s first moments, it was clear that Callea and Campbell are seasoned entertainers at the top of their game. Callea’s powerhouse vocals, which captured the hearts of Australians 21 years ago on Australian Idol, were a perfect match for George Michael’s soulful ballads and dancefloor anthems. Meanwhile, Campbell’s matinee-idol charm and charismatic stage presence highlighted his versatility as an all-round showman. Campbell brought a vibrant sense of fun to the evening, his self-deprecating humour adding a delightful layer to a performance, effortlessly complementing Callea’s commanding delivery.
The pair’s onstage chemistry was magnetic, brimming with playful banter and good-natured ribbing that had the audience laughing out loud. Their irreverent, camp humour (Dad jokes included) made the audience feel like they were part of the couple’s inner circle. If Anthony and Tim ever decide to hang up their mics, I’m convinced a successful comedy career awaits them!
The show opened with Callea’s strong rendition of George Michael’s Father Figure, followed by Campbell’s equally impressive take on Elton John’s Goodbye Yellow Brick Road. Far from being just another ‘greatest hits’ concert, the evening unfolded as a personal musical journey for both singers. Between songs, Anthony and Tim shared heartfelt and humorous anecdotes about the impact George Michael and Elton John’s music has had on their lives. The result was a showcase of heart and soul.
Backed by an exceptionally tight seven-piece band and stellar backing vocalists Susie Aherne and Rocky Leprevite, the setlist was a well-curated mix of solos and duets. Callea captivated with his powerful interpretations of One More Try and Careless Whisper, while Campbell’s electrifying, rock-god take on Somebody to Love brought the house down. Together, their harmonies on duets like Jesus to a Child, Freedom ’90, and Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me were also warmly received.
No tribute to George Michael would be complete without a nod to Wham! and the duo delivered a high-energy finale with a vibrant campy 80s medley that included Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go, Freedom, and I’m Your Man. This number had the crowd on their feet, wrapping up the night on a high-energy, feel-good note.
Callea and Campbell’s chemistry, show-stopping vocals, and infectious energy made for an unforgettable night of music and entertainment. With hints of more shows on the horizon, this dynamic duo should be at the top of your must-see list.
Anthony and Tim’s show is currently touring Australia. Visit songsofeltonandgeorge.com for details.
SONGS OF ELTON AND GEORGE
In an unmissable celebration of two iconic musical legends, powerhouse vocalists and dynamic performers Anthony Callea and Tim Campbell present a spectacular concert featuring the timeless hits of Elton John and George Michael. After sold out shows in Melbourne and Sydney this national tour is set to once again entertain audiences, taking them on a musical journey through the classic songs that have defined generations, creating an unforgettable and entertaining live music concert experience.
SHOW DATES
The Songs of Elton John and George Michael
- Sat 05 Apr 25 - MyState Bank Arena Hobart TAS
- Sat 26 Apr '25 - Gippsland Performing Arts Centre VIC
- Fri 02 May '25 - Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre NSW
- Sat 03 May '25 - Coliseum Theatre (Western Sydney) NSW
- Fri 09 May '25 - The Palms at Crown Melbourne VIC
- Sat 10 May '25 2pm - The Palms at Crown Melbourne VIC
- Sat 10 May '25 7:30pm -The Palms at Crown Melbourne VIC
- Sun 11 May '25 - The Palms at Crown Melbourne VIC
- Fri 16 May '25 -The Tivoli Brisbane QLD
- Sat 17 May '25 - Twin Towns Coolangatta QLD
- Fri 23 May '25 - Riverlinks Eastbank Shepparton VIC
- Sat 24 May '25 - Albury Entertainment Centre NSW
- Fri 30 May '25 - The Pavilion Sutherland NSW
- Sat 31 May '25 - Civic Theatre Newcastle NSW
- Fri 06 Jun '25 - Mandurah Performing Arts Centre WA
- Sat 07 Jun '25 - Astor Theatre Perth WA
- Sat 14 Jun '25 2pm -The Events Centre Caloundra QLD
- Sat 14 Jun '25 7:30pm - The Events Centre Caloundra QLD
- Thurs 19 Jun '25 - Frankston Arts Centre VIC
- Sat 21 Jun '25 - EVAN Theatre Penrith NSW
- Fri 27 Jun '25 -The Pilbeam Theatre Rockhampton QLD
- Sat 28 Jun '25 - Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre QLD
