The biggest theatrical performance to ever grace the Paragon Theatre’s stage will delight guests as RESPECT The Aretha Franklin Story is part of this year’s Childers Festival.
The audience will be taken on a journey through the captivating life of Aretha Franklin in the production which allows songs by the Queen of Soul to tell her life story.
Producer Monique Cribb said the two-hour immersive experience garnered standing ovations at every performance, which was a testament to its emotional and musical impact.
“The show is more than showcasing Aretha’s greatest songs; it is a story about family, loyalty and victory, layered with glorious harmonies and sassy repartee,” Monique said.
“Even if you think you don’t know many of Aretha’s songs, you’ll be surprised at how many familiar tunes you’ll recognise and enjoy!
“The show is a rollercoaster of emotions—you’ll laugh, cry, and leave feeling uplifted.
“Interestingly, while many women might initially drag their husbands along, it’s often the husbands who are the first to stand and applaud.”
Monique said she looked forward to bringing RESPECT The Aretha Franklin Story to the Bundaberg Region to be part of the Childers Festival.
“We are deeply honoured to be part of such a prestigious event that celebrates the vibrant culture and community of this wonderful region of Queensland,” she said.
“We’re excited to meet the locals and visitors and look forward to delivering an unforgettable night!
“This area is one of our favourite places to visit in Queensland – not only is it stunningly beautiful, but the warmth and friendliness of the locals make it a perfect place to perform. What better excuse to put on a show than in such an amazing setting/
“Despite being a 100% Queensland creation, it’s often mistaken for a cast from the USA, a testament to the exceptional talent involved.
“There’s also a spectacular surprise near the end of the show that never fails to leave the audience in tears.”
Aretha helps celebrate the Paragon
Paragon Theatre owner Merissa Craft said the Night at the Paragon was always a popular Childers Festival event.
“The Paragon is such a special place and no matter what the event, everyone enjoys themselves,” she said.
“A Night at the Paragon has seen some amazing performers on our stage and it starts the Festival weekend off on the right foot.”
Merissa said this year’s Night at the Paragon event held during the Childers Festival held a special place in her heart.
“That night marks the 10-year anniversary of me re-opening The Paragon,” Merissa said.
“The Paragon is also for sale, and I wanted to make sure we ‘went out with a bang’ for this celebration.
“The perfect way to do that is the RESPECT- The Aretha Franklin Story as it will be the biggest theatrical performance on our stage to date.”
Merissa is encouraging anyone who has not been to the Childers Festival to do themselves a favour and head along.
“Whether it is the festival day itself or the many ticketed events leading up to it, there is truly something for everyone,” she said.
“The town comes alive, and it brings so many people from all over Australia to our region which is wonderful.”
To secure your ticket click here or for more information check out the Childers Festival program.
- Other news: Flourish Family Fun Day is back
I hope that the new owners of the Paragon continue to show the old movies there. We went to see “Some Like it Hot” there last year and had a wonderful time. Seeing a classic old film like this surrounded by a setting from a bygone era brought back many fond memories of childhood and made for an enjoyable experience. In fact, I’m sure that there would be more than enough interest from the senior citizens in our community who love the old classic films to warrant showing more of these classic films more frequently to make it financially viable for the new owners to do this.