Nina Simone was a classically trained piano virtuoso who became one of America’s most recognised singers-songwriters, and a key voice in the US Civil Rights Movement.
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Her unique blend of jazz, classical music and blues earned her cult status and critical acclaim and she used her remarkable talent to create a legacy of liberation and empowerment through 50 albums and 500 songs in a career spanning more than 50 years.
In Love Me or Leave Me - A Tribute to Nina Simone Christine Manetta portrays Simone's stories and songs with a passionate drive and gives them a spin of her own.
“We are currently in our second season of the show at the Apollo Theatre in Melbourne Speakeasy and have also presented the show at many regional festivals such as Castlemaine, Port Fairy, Inverloch and Grampians, Manetta says.
“We’re looking forward to bringing our show to Albury and sharing our love of Nina with everyone.”
The two-hour concert experience features the songs and music of Simone, interwoven with heartfelt stories of her life, loves and passions.
Manetta portrays Simone’s songs with passionate while giving them her own spin. Highlights include My Baby Just Cares for Me, I Put a Spell on You, Feelin Good and Sinnerman.
"I take Nina’s legacy and go on with the show,” Manetta says.
Manetta is an accomplished vocalist who wrote and directed the show, backed by the Black Pearl Band, to honour and preserve the works of Simone.
Through the show she challenges the diva stereotype and sets out to redefine the diva through the music and stories of the resilient diva, Simone.
“Resilient Divas, who endured and overcame the obstacles of life and who were interested in social issues and justice,” she says.