Love Me or Leave Me

The show Love Me or Leave Me returns once again to The Wesley Anne after numerous previously SOLD-OUT shows.

Experience an evening filled with powerful music, celebrating the legendary Nina Simone — one of the most extraordinary artists of the twentieth century. Nina Simone's unique blend of jazz, classical music and blues earned her critical acclaim through a magnificent body of work, recording 500 songs throughout a career spanning over fifty years.

Join Christine Manetta on a musical exploration, interwoven with heartfelt stories of the life, loves and passions of the legendary Nina Simone, as she beautifully portrays Nina Simone's songs, bringing a fresh perspective to Nina's timeless works, while inviting the audience to connect with the rich warmth behind the music — from energetic elation to smoky sultriness.

Be immersed in the sentimental landscape of iconic tracks such as I Put a Spell on You, Feelin' Good, Sinnerman and My Baby Just Cares for Me.

Accompanied by Musical Director Adam Rudegeair and his quartet, they will pay homage to Nina, from whole-hearted blues and supper club jazz to crusader anthems, bringing life to these influential works through the lens of jazz and soul.

"A fabulous show and I highly recommend you check it out."
— Barry Maxwell, 3NRG FM / Blues Music Victoria

Musicians

Christine Manetta – Vocals. Melbourne-based vocalist, with notable appearances at Castlemaine, Merimbula and Port Fairy festivals. Guest presenter on ABC Radio (Nina Simone tribute programs) and internationally celebrated songwriter, multi-award-winning album One Woman One Day — Global Music Awards (US), Intercontinental Music Awards (US) and Women's International Film Festival (US), to name a few.

Adam Rudegeair – Piano. A pianist, educator and broadcaster based in Melbourne. Adam's musical interests include New Orleans piano stylings, Prince and the Minneapolis sound. His portfolio of projects is sprawling, and includes Lake Minnetonka, The Bowie Project, Retconned Bond, and Bourbon Street to Brunswick Street (a collaboration with "boss of the piano" Bob Sedergreen).

Stephen Caruana – Drums/Percussion. Originally from Brisbane, having graduated from the Queensland Conservatorium and Rotterdam Conservatory (Codarts), The Netherlands. Stephen has performed throughout Australia and internationally, with performances spread throughout Europe.

Aaron Searle – Saxophones/Flute. Composer, music educator and jazz musician from Melbourne. Aaron has released three solo albums — three of original material and one album of compositions by Dave Brubeck.

Tim Rex – Bass. A professional double bass player with a versatile approach to performance and recording. He recorded his first album in 2020, working with acclaimed pianist Tony Gould.

Contact the host of Love Me or Leave Me - Nina Simone Tribute