What's On

Melbourne performer Tim Clark returns to the stage for an alt-country cabaret tribute to the brilliant women whose songs have guided him.

In his new show, When I Was a Girl, he sings songs by such luminaries as Gillian Welch, Neko Case, Aimee Mann, First Aid Kit, Fiona Apple and Patty Griffin. Backed by an impressive band formed exclusively for this show, Tim explores what draws him to the songs of women, offering a heartfelt exploration of identity: the masculine and feminine, the gay and straight, the bold and the scared.

“The name of the show is purely metaphorical,” he says. “I can never fully understand what it’s like to be a woman, but I wanted to dive into the stories and songs of these incredible songwriters, to delve into their experiences with empathy, as a way of challenging and developing my own world view.”

“These are the songs that have shaped my musicality, and deepened my understanding of a lived experience that isn’t mine,” he continues, “and it’s also just a thumping good hour of brilliant songs! Torch songs, murder ballads, rock anthems - the whole lot.”

When I Was a Girl opens on November 5 and runs for five nights (exc. Melbourne Cup Day, Tuesday 6 November). Bookings recommended.