Among the dazzling shows, the comedy chaos and late-night cabaret energy that define Adelaide Fringe, Nina Simone – A Musical Life arrives as a moment of pure musical reverence. Staged inside The Garage International at Adelaide Town Hall, the production feels both grand and intimate – the perfect environment to honour one of the most influential voices in modern music. And I’m a Nina fan. No, like really. I cried when she died knowing I had missed my chance to see her ever play live – years later I have now seen her daughter, Lisa Simone, perform, so at least I have got close in some small but meaningful way.

But, let’s continue, I’m ramblng…

The Town Hall’s (Actually this venue was originally part of the church I think?) stately setting adds a sense of occasion from the moment the lights dim. Within this elegant space, the music of Nina Simone unfolds with warmth, soul and undeniable groove, transforming the venue into something closer to a smoky jazz salon than a concert hall.

“Bonnie Lee Galea… guides the audience through Simone’s remarkable musical legacy…” Markus Hamence

At the centre of the performance is Bonnie Lee Galea, whose commanding vocal presence (And BIG flaming hair) guides the audience through Simone’s remarkable musical legacy. Galea wisely avoids imitation (Credit). Instead, she channels the emotional intensity and spirit that defined Simone’s artistry, delivering each song with depth and sincerity, in her and the band’s way.

Backing her is the exceptional Jazz in Cheek Quartet – Richard Coates on piano, Quinton Dunne on double bass, and Steve Todd on drums and percussion. Their musicianship is fluid and deeply expressive, shifting effortlessly between jazz sophistication, blues grit and gospel fire – Let’s be honest, Nina could not be put in a defining genre – She did it all. It’s a tight ensemble that knows exactly when to lean in and when to let the music breathe.

The show travels through Simone’s celebrated catalogue with style and confidence. My Baby Just Cares for Me sparkles with playful charm, I Put a Spell on You arrives dripping with sultry power, while Sinner Man builds into a thrilling rhythmic storm that ignites the room. Each song lands with fresh energy while still honouring the spirit of the original recordings.

Threaded between the songs are glimpses into Simone’s extraordinary life – her early classical ambitions, the unexpected pivot into singing, and the fearless artistic voice that would shape generations of musicians. These magic moments of storytelling help frame the music within the powerful journey of the woman behind it.

What makes Nina Simone – A Musical Life work and stand out at the Fringe is its authenticity. There’s no flashy spectacle or theatrical gimmicks here – just outstanding musicians, timeless songs and a deep respect for an artist whose impact continues to echo across decades.

Inside The Garage International at Adelaide Town Hall, the result is a performance that feels both celebratory and heartfelt – a musical portrait that reminds us why Nina Simone remains one of the most powerful voices ever to grace a stage.

Wrap-up: A soulful and elegant Fringe performance that lets Nina Simone’s music shine with timeless class.