Sarah McKenzie with the WA Youth Jazz Orchestra

Internationally acclaimed Australian jazz pianist and vocalist Sarah McKenzie (USA) reunites with the WA Youth Jazz Orchestra (WAYJO) for an evening of Brazilian-inspired big band jazz in the iconic Liberty Theatre.

Hailed as a once-in-a-generation talent, Sarah returns to her roots in Perth, where she first honed her skills with WAYJO. With an impressive international touring history, including performances alongside Michael Bublé, Enrico Rava, and John Patitucci, Sarah’s lyrical sense of swing has been compared to that of Blossom Dearie and Diana Krall.

Her sixth and latest album, ‘Without You,’ is a reinvention of the timeless music of Brazilian jazz, infused with fresh ideas and subtle surprises. Featuring treasured classics such as ‘Corcovado’ (Quiet Nights) and ‘The Girl From Ipanema,’ alongside Sarah’s original compositions influenced by the likes of Tom Jobim, Elis Regina, and Astrud Gilberto.

Performing in the Liberty Theatre in the heart of the Perth CBD, the venue exudes nostalgia and mystery. The Liberty Theatre first opened as an art house cinema in 1954 but has been closed for decades. This is a unique opportunity to see live music in a venue that is rarely open to the public.

Sarah McKenzie graces the stage with WAYJO’s 18-piece Monday Night Orchestra, with big band adaptations breathing new energy into her remarkable repertoire spanning her career. From gentle sway of Brazilian jazz to soulful ballads, audiences will be immersed in the combination of paying homage to tradition, and innovation.

This event is presented by the Perth International Jazz Festival and WA Youth Jazz Orchestra.