KELOWNA – The long-running and much-loved tribute show Queen, It’s A Kinda Magic is arriving at the Kelowna Community Theatre Sept. 14.
The new tour, which features updated production and a brand new international cast, will bring to life all of the band’s greatest hits performed live, including We Will Rock You, Bohemian Rhapsody, We Are the Champions and Fat-Bottomed Girls.
Painstaking attention has been paid to all the music – the iconic voice of Freddie Mercury, the amazing guitar solos of Brian May, and the groundbreaking rock harmonies. With state-of-the-art sound and lighting and authentic costumes, the show has attracted the attention, endorsement and eventual involvement of Peter Freestone, Mercury’s best friend and personal assistant for 12 years.
After reviewing the show while in Singapore in 2007, Freestone was duly impressed and contacted promoter John Van Grinsven with his compliments.
A friendship ensued and Freestone now tours with QIAKM where his schedule allows, acting as a production consultant for the show as well as signing autographs and chatting with fans.
In 2014, the coveted and complex role of Mercury was taken on by respected English performer and multi-instrumentalist Giles Taylor, who counts his role in Queen – It’s a Kinda Magic as one of the toughest musical roles he has encountered to date.
“Freddie was known for his powerful voice and vocal range, and had a very distinct character in general, so emulating him is quite a challenge, but those details need to be just right for a show of this magnitude,” said Taylor. “True Queen fans will appreciate the attention to detail.”
Taylor will be joined by Australians Richie Baker, as Brian May on guitar, and Kyle Thompson, as Roger Taylor on drums, with South Africa’s Steven Dennett as John Deacon on bass.
For tickets go to www.selectyourtickets.com, call 250-762-5050.
