Black Diva Power at Her Majesty's Theatre

The powerful characters and music of Billie Holiday and Nina Simone are brought to life in Black Diva Power – two compelling plays performed back to back, written by award-winning playwright Neil Cole and directed by Paul Watson, with Musical Director Mark Fitzgibbon leading a three-piece band.

Fresh from Edinburgh Festival and the hit of Adelaide Cabaret Festival, Cole’s portrayal of musical storyteller and passionate civil rights activist, Nina Simone stars the critically acclaimed Ruth Rogers-Wright in an astonishingly profound performance as one of the most extraordinary artists of the 20th century. It focuses on Simone’s friendship with Lorraine Hansbury, playwright (A Raisin In The Sun) and black activist.

Melbourne-based cabaret performer, Mama Alto’s mesmerising portrayal of one of the greatest singers of all time recently sold out the Melbourne Recital Centre during the American Songbook Festival. Alto personifies the great Billie Holiday, giving the audience an intimate insight into her seminal influence on jazz and pop music, despite – or because of – her tumultuous upbringing as a black female in early 20th century. A moving tribute to the woman they called Lady Day.