Melissa Western - Jazz / Cabaret Singer
Studying and performing in the theatre world since 1995, Melissa’s passion for jazz blossomed at the turn of the millennium leading to a successful career in Brisbane and South-East Queensland.
Having learnt her musical craft ‘on the job’ (her first gig was with a 14 piece big band) Melissa now performs fulltime with a variety of backings from simple piano duos right up to 20+ jazz orchestras.
She has performed at numerous venues and festivals, recent highlights have been: Brisbane Cabaret Festival, Brisbane Jazz Club, Qld Music Festival, Woodford Folk Festival, The Basement – Gold Coast Arts Centre, The Tivoli, Gold Coast Jazz and Blues Club, The Milkbar, Brisbane City Hall, Sirromet Winery, King George Square, La Boite Theatre, Zen Zen Zo Physical Theatre.
Melissa was awarded a prestigious Churchill Fellowship to pursue her passion for improvised music theatre. In July 2015 she travelled to the UK to embark on an extended sabbatical training with companies including The Showstoppers, Baby Wants Candy, The Maydays and Open Your Mouth and Sing.
Barbara & Barry
Playing the character of Barbara opposite her real life partner Tnee (who plays Barry) has never been more fun! Following an extensive Queensland tour, the jazz-comedy team have been hosting cabarets and events in the UK and Australia, getting to know lots of other crazy characters. Their 2015 season of Sweet, Sour & Saucy at the Judith Wright Centre was nominated for three Matilda Awards, including Best Female Actor in a Leading Role.
