Mahalia Barnes at the Royal Hotel Queanbeyan. Photo: Supplied.
Mahalia Barnes is coming to Queanbeyan
One of the region’s most historic and iconic local venues, Royal Hotel Queanbeyan, will host their first big live music show since the COVID-19 shutdowns were introduced.
On Friday 18 September, Mahalia Barnes will bring her signature style of gutsy soul, rock and blues to the stage of the Royal with her band, The Soul Mates.
Mahalia Barnes has been in and around music her entire life. Throughout her childhood years she was exposed to everything from Ray Charles, Otis Redding, Wilson Pickett to Ike + Tina Turner, Aretha Franklin, Donny Hathaway and Stevie Wonder, all of which helped shape her into the powerhouse soul and blues vocalist that has jaws dropping every time she picks up a mic.
The venue has a strong reputation for live entertainment, as well as being the home of Australia’s Best Pub Steak. Publican Anthony McDonald says they are very excited to see big shows return to the pub.
“At the Royal, we’ve always had the view that you need to do more than just open the doors. We believe that live music should be at the heart of a venue and that’s why we invest in music. It’s what makes people tick,” says Anthony.
“It’s great to offer live music fans a show with full production again. People have been asking – when are the live shows coming back? So, there’s definitely an appetite for it.”
“In adapting to this new world order, we really wanted to enhance the overall music experience and thought – why not dinner and a show? With Mahalia playing on Friday 18 September, there’s no doubt it will be a great experience,” Anthony says.
“It’ll be an intimate crowd and an opportunity to be more interactive with the performers and, I’m pleased to say, this will definitely not be the last national music act to come to the Royal. We are currently in negotiations with some great Aussie talent, so definitely watch this space!
“That said, we’re not just focusing on the “big players” in the music industry. We’re supporting local musos who have done it really tough since the lockdown – some may say, more than most. This time of year is typically their busiest season, and an opportunity to set themselves up financially. With everything that’s happened, most weddings and parties have been cancelled so they literally have no work opportunities.
“Just last weekend, we had seven local artists playing downstairs and upstairs from Friday to Sunday. Everyone had a ball and we definitely intend to keep the momentum.”
Anthony’s excited for Mahalia’s show on Friday night. Photo: Supplied.
When questioned about Mahalia, Anthony shares his delight at having Mahalia at the Royal. “I’ve seen Mahalia perform solo and supported by her dad Jimmy Barnes, and they’re both outstanding performers. It will be a fantastic show on Friday night,” says Anthony.
Join Mahalia Barnes for dinner and a show this Friday 18 September in her intimate, COVID-19 Safe performance with her band, The Soul Mates. There are sessions available at 5.30 pm and 8.30 pm with tickets strictly limited @ only $89.80. Book now www.royalhotelqbn.com.au.
The Details
What: Mahalia Barnes and The Soul Mates – Live
Where: Royal Hotel Queanbeyan
When: Friday 18 September, two sessions available: 5:30 pm or 8:30 pm
Cost: $89.90 per person – includes dinner & show
Tickets: Tickets available here
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