Two titans, one legacy, one mission.
On Saturday, November 7 at the Evan Theatre in Penrith, experience the magic of two music legends coming together for one noble cause, to spread awareness for the devastating illness that is Parkinson’s Disease.
Peter Byrne, an ambassador for Shake It Up Australia, will be performing the timeless music of Neil Diamond, while Damian Mullin will be channeling the charisma and energy of the late, great Elvis Presley, in a night of unforgettable rock and roll.
Celebrating Diamond’s music since 1992, Byrne has been obsessed with the songwriting and catchy tunes of Diamond since his youth.
“I’m totally addicted to it and I can’t not perform his music… I can’t wait to get on stage and you can’t get me off,” Byrne laughed.
After recreating Diamond’s ‘Hot August Night’ album, accompanied by a symphony orchestra, Byrne knew he had found his calling.
Now, after performing all over the world for more than 30 years, Byrne has come to Penrith for a very special show.
“When Neil Diamond was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2018, a thought just came into my mind that I had been given the gift of being able to perform his music for such a long time, so maybe I should give something back,” Byrne shared.
Since then, Byrne has raised close to $100,000 for Parkinson’s Disease research, and has no intention of slowing down.
Joining him on this worthy cause is award-winning Elvis tribute artist, Damian Mullin. Also fascinated since his youth, Mullin has entertained audiences from around the world with his burning love and blue suede shoes.
“My mum was a very big Elvis fan, so I got to hear him on the radio and see his record covers, and then I saw his movies were all the girls are going crazy over him. I would never have thought that the impact back then would end up being something that I would do as a career,” Mullin shared.
Having performed as Elvis full-time for almost 20 years, Mullin initially struggled with relinquishing control of his front-man duties to orchestra conductor Shannon Brown.
“That’s been a big learning curve, to realise that as much as I’m used to being in control, the conductor is in control of the orchestra. As time’s gone on that’s gotten tighter and tighter,” Mullin said.
With the Shake It Up Australia foundation donating $10 from every ticket sold, both Byrne and Mullin are keen to step out onto the Penrith stage.
“Working with Peter is just a really nice experience. He’s a master showman and he brings an element of storytelling, where I’m probably more… the gear steps up a bit when I come on and it’s all entertainment… It’s a nice mix,” Mullin said.
“We’re making people aware of this illness, and at the same time, giving them a concert they won’t forget,” Byrne added.
‘From A Diamond To A King’ is being performed at Penrith Panthers Leagues Club on November 7. Tickets at www.fromadiamondtoaking.com.
