The songs of Olivia Newton John, as well as those of other Australian favourites, will ring out at Werribee RSL on the morning of July 30 when Melbourne performer Jennifer Lee brings her tribute show to the venue.
Lee began performing her Olivia Newton John and Friends show in 2018, four years before the legendary singer and actress died from cancer.
“I never thought when I started that I’d be singing her songs after she passed away,” she said.
“I’ve always been a fan of her and her music and the show traces songs from her very beginnings, from the 60’s through to the hits of the 80’s.”
Given how much Newton John’s music and career changed over that time, that’s much easier said than done.
“It’s a difficult thing with Olivia, because she starts off singing country, then the Grease stuff, then you move through to Xanadu where she’s in this disco outfit on roller skates,” Lee said.
“I gave up trying to find an outfit that covers all those areas.”
Lee performs the show by herself, adding songs from other influential Australian artists of the time such as The Seekers, Helen Reddy, and Debra Byrne for good measure.
However, she said it’s the work of Newton John that really strikes a chord with the audience.
“Just about everyone I meet has a soft sport for Olivia,” Lee said.
“She’s one of those iconic Australian figures people just love.”
Jennifer Lee’s Olivia Newton John and Friends show is on from 11am to noon on Tuesday, July 30, as part of Werribee RSL’s Morning Melodies series.
Details: werribeersl.com.au/whatson
Cade Lucas
