Songs in High Summer

From opera to musical theatre, art song to cabaret, Mackenzie Lawrence and John Martin cross musical boundaries with wit, flair and a touch of mischief. Mackenzie is a remarkable character actor and singer, bringing every song vividly to life, while John Martin matches with musical imagination. Expect beautiful songs, unexpected turns and a summer evening with plenty of personality.

Mackenzie Lawrence

Mackenzie is a NSW-based soprano and emerging opera singer, focusing on classical singing, with interests in opera, operetta, and German lied. Currently, Mackenzie is studying a Bachelor of Performance (Classical Voice) at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music under Donna Balson. Originally from Nowra, she previously performed with the Sydney Children’s Choir-Gondwana Choirs and has performed roles with Gilbert & Sullivan Opera Sydney, including Edith in Pirates of Penzance (2022) and Phyllis in Iolanthe (2023), and was a 2024 finalist in the Demant Dreikurs Scholarship Song Competition. Mackenzie performed as a soloist for the Yass Music Club in late 2025 and in our 2026 Emerging Artist Concert Series..

John Martin

As a pianist and Music Director, John has collaborated with the elite of Australian and international concert and theatre scenes. His extensive portfolio includes performances with David Hobson, Marina Prior, Teddy Tahu Rhodes and Miriam Margolyes, along with international tours to China with Jane Rutter.

A champion of Australian music, John is frequently heard on ABC Classic FM. His prolific recording history with the Wirripang label includes a long-term collaboration with composer Ann Carr-Boyd. His solo album, Rhythms of Green and Gold, recently reached the ARIA Classical Top 20. Also a published composer, John’s piano and voice works are published by Wirripang, alongside his recent solo cabaret tours.

John is also a dedicated mentor to the next generation of talent, frequently serving as Music Director for university theatre programs and collaborating with up-and-coming performers across the classical and cabaret genres.

Concerts Across the Lawn

We respect and acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Dharawal Country, Elders past and present, and extend that respect to other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Come with family and friends and experience the joy of listening to music surrounded by nature. Watch the light fade and twilight settle in. Enjoy a nibble and a drink in one of the most unique concert spaces in the Illawarra. We provide light nibbles and drinks; feel free to bring your own supper. Chairs and rugs are available, but we encourage you to bring your own just in case. Numbers are limited to ensure that the event can go ahead regardless of weather.

The Stage Nature, Music, Art, Architecture

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