James Valentine brings upbeat blend of comedy and music

James Valentine will bring his Upbeat Revue to The Art House, Wyong, on Saturday, May 31.

Upbeat Revue is a new live music and comedy special.

What happens when a jazz-loving, joke-cracking ABC radio host takes to the stage with his saxophone and a killer organ quartet?

You get James Valentine’s Upbeat Revue – an unmissable evening of live music and comedy, because why choose just one?

After a return to Afternoons on ABC Radio in August 2024 – following months off air and five weeks of chemotherapy and radiation earlier that year – Valentine is back doing what he does best: playing sax, cracking jokes and connecting with audiences.

He cut his teeth as a saxophonist in the 1980s, performing with Models, Absent Friends, Wendy Matthews, Jo Camilleri, Kate Ceberano and more.

While he still plays regularly with his jazz quartet in Sydney, Upbeat Revue marks his return to national touring.

The revue is a two-hour theatre performance featuring live music and comedy interludes.

Expect modern hits from James Taylor, George Michael, and Burt Bacharach reimagined with sizzling organ riffs plus sharp comic detours and hilarious behind-the-scenes stories from Valentine’s life on air.

He will be joined by his powerhouse jazz quartet: Darren Heinrich (organ), Sam Rollings (guitar), and Nic Cecire (drums).

Special guest Liz Player, vocalist from The Voice 2024, will also perform with bassist Sabine Tapia accompanying.

The Revue plays at The Art House at 3pm on Saturday, May 31.

Book at thearthousewyong.com.au