The Byron Speakeasy Unveils Byron Bay’s Hottest January Nights
Popping up in the heart of Byron Bay for the first two weeks of January, The Byron Speakeasy will present six evenings of entertainment inspired by the classic speakeasy nightclub style of days gone by - with incredible musical guests, dancing into the later hours, bespoke cocktails and an atmosphere steeped in the mystique of the prohibition era.
Event producer Jon Howell says:
Byron Bay deserves an entertainment experience that matches its vibrant spirit. The Byron Speakeasy is about more than just incredible music -it’s about creating a space where audiences can unwind, connect and truly immerse themselves in the magic of the moment. Byron can get a little hectic in January, and we want audiences to relax and take their time.
Over six extraordinary nights, The Byron Speakeasy will showcase some of Australia’s most captivating artists, each bringing their unique talents to the intimate cabaret setting. The soulful and powerful Karise Eden will deliver an emotional and electrifying performance, while Prinnie Stevens enchants with her dynamic blend of musical theatre, gospel and pop. Child prodigy-turned-blues-hero Nathan Cavaleri brings his originals to the party. Jazz sensation Nicki Parrott captivates with her velvety vocals and exquisite bass playing, and the renowned Jeff Lang offers his signature fusion of blues, folk and rock. Closing the series is the mesmerising Abby Dobson, whose smoky, romantic voice promises an unforgettable finale.
With its blend of world-class entertainment, handcrafted cocktails and vintage charm, The Byron Speakeasy offers a rare fusion of nostalgia and nightlife. Whether you’re a local or visiting Byron Bay this summer, these are must-see events that promise a truly magical experience.
Tickets will sell fast for this limited-run event. Don’t miss your chance to step back in time and experience The Byron Speakeasy. Visit www.thebyronspeakeasy.com to secure your spot today!
Event Details
What: The Byron Speakeasy
Where: Byron Theatre, 69 Jonson Street, Byron Bay
When: January 3–10, 2024
Lineup:
January 3: Karise Eden
January 4: Prinnie Stevens
January 7: Nathan Cavaleri
January 8: Nicki Parrott
January 9: Jeff Lang
January 10: Abby Dobson
Tickets: www.thebyronspeakeasy.com
About the Artists
Karise Eden - January 3
Shooting to fame at the age of 19 with a viral audition video that now has over 50 million views on YouTube, Karise Eden has arguably one of Australia’s most distinctive voices, with two ARIA Awards, gold and platinum records and multiple Top 5 positions in the ARIA and AIR charts.
Often compared with the likes of Adele and Amy Winehouse, the formidable singer-songwriter’s first indie release in 2022, “Into The Black” also featured an AIR No. 1 single.
Karise’s solo shows see her armed with her guitar and a songbook of her own originals plus her own twist on some classics that have influenced her musical journey throughout her career.
From blues to soul, rock to power pop, country to Americana, this girl can tackle any genre with authenticity, because to put it simply, she’s got the music in her!
Prinnie Stevens - January 4
Known for her spellbinding voice and dynamic stage presence, Prinnie combines her extensive experience in musical theatre, pop, soul, and gospel to deliver a diverse and unforgettable show.
"Sultry, smoky and sentimental - a chill-inducing masterclass in modern cabaret." – The Advertiser ★★★★★
Nathan Cavaleri - January 7
Sydney’s Indie Rock/Blues artist Nathan Cavaleri. Nathan has recently released his new single “Demons”. The result of a period of personal confrontation and struggle, “Demons” is a striking mix of psychedelic guitar, and swampy riffs, and the next step in an already distinguished, (albeit perhaps unheralded) career.
There have been highs; at the age of twelve Cavaleri was at the centre of a label bidding war, at sixteen he’d toured with B.B. King and played at the Kennedy Centre in front of The Clintons, with Etta James and Bonnie Raitt. But, there have also some struggles, in 2010, following a battle with insomnia and anxiety, Cavaleri took four years out to regain his confidence and drive. It was during these years that “Demons”, and his forthcoming EP, began to take shape.
Nicki Parrott - January 8
Having just returned home to Australia after 30 years of headlining in New York, Japan and Europe, international recording and touring artist Nicki Parrott can’t wait to hit the stage at The Byron Speakeasy.
"Nicki Parrott could make anyone love jazz." Cabaret Scene
“Nicki brings clear articulation, beautiful tone, a sense of rhythmic assuredness and a touch of allure to inventive arrangements.” Jazz Times
“She has that special gift you cannot buy in a music store.” Les Paul “...a rarity, a first-class bassist whose playing is as sublime as her vocals.” Limelight
Jeff Lang - January 9
Australian guitarist-songwriter-vocalist-producer, Jeff Lang has built a reputation for making startling music that is accomplished, intricate, gutsy, melodic and loaded with soul. Often taking unexpected turns, he has consistently inspired his audiences by creating a stylistically diverse catalogue of over 25 albums. Jeff has mischievously called his music ‘Disturbed Folk.’ One writer referred to him as a “quiet achiever.” But the overall impression one has from observing Jeff’s lengthy career is that of a driven man who keeps his head down, playing and recording music as if his very life depends on it.
“Australian guitarist Jeff Lang weaves remarkably skilled blues guitar around his songs, effortlessly playing complicated parts but never at the expense of the songs themselves.” The Onion
“Lang’s only reference point is himself, a unique singer-songwriter-guitarist who follows his own path” Le Soleil, Quebec
Abby Dobson - January 10
Abby Dobson rose to fame as the singer of 90’s platinum artist Leonardo’s Bride and continues to wow audiences with her solo material and as part of faux french band Baby et Lulu.
Abby will perform an intimate show of her original songs spanning her long and illustrious career.
“Abby Dobson is blessed with one of the most distinctive voices in Australian music — a smoky, intrinsically romantic instrument that she’s used to bewitch audiences over the years” - The Age, Melbourne
“A mega-watt powerful voice which conjures melancholy, romance and sex, seemingly out of the ether” - The Independent, England
"This is Dobson’s stage, Dobson’s show.. For the audience, the end of each song is a chance to finally exhale, for in a show as compelling as Dobson’s, the moments where breathing comes easily are few and far between. “ - Australian Stage & Screen
“Abby Dobson’s curiously arousing sulk sinks into slow-release melodies like a body into a scented bath” - Rolling Stone