Love Me or Leave Me - A Tribute to Nina Simone

Part concert, part storytelling, Love Me or Leave Me is a Nina Simone tribute built around her life and loves. Christine Manetta is artistic director, narrator and singer, telling the story through monologue and anecdote between songs, with a band of seasoned Melbourne musicians on piano, bass and drums led by musical director Adam Rudegeair. The music travels from gospel beginnings and cabaret jazz to protest anthems and 60s flower power songs: See-Line Woman, Feeling Good, I Want a Little Sugar in My Bowl, Sinnerman, My Baby Just Cares for Me and I Put a Spell on You. It's a listening show, better suited to a seated room than a dance floor. The band brings its own drum kit, amps and microphones, and can either use the venue's PA or supply one. The show is insured and tours nationwide.