Raining Red Roses: the Hildegard Knef story
A tribute to the tumultuous life and sublime songs of Hildegard Knef (1925-2002), one of Germany's greatest stage, screen and music artists. In addition to her theatre work, she wrote 130 songs and 7 books, made 27 films, recorded 50 albums and gave 100 concerts. This musical bio-pic traces her life story from wartime Berlin to Hollywood, then to the concert halls of Europe. Married three times, often mired in scandal, adored and reviled in equal measure, her artistic career was powered by her unwavering belief that she should be showered with red roses. Her story is told in English, with songs in German and in English. Performed by Shelley Dunstone (story and vocals) with Musical Director Edward Heddle (piano).
Presented by: Shelley Dunstone
Shelley Dunstone is an Adelaide cabaret performer who has created and performed numerous original shows, including 'The Confessions of a Wannabe Bond Girl', 'Adventures with a Brazilian', 'Unbreak My Heart', 'Memories of Brazil' and 'Wanderlust' (which was inspired by the discovery of her German ancestry). In 'The Hildegard Knef Story' she ventures further into the world of German music, history and culture.
Edward Heddle began playing classical piano at age six, and has expanded into playing jazz and composing his own original music. He has twice won the Young SA Jazz composers competition, as well as other awards. He holds a Masters in Music from SUNY Purchase in the US where he studied with John Abercrombie, Steve Wilson and Hal Galper. He is currently working on his Music Doctorate.