For one night only, the East Perth Power Station came alive with the music of David Bowie reimagined by Perth Symphony Orchestra and an impressive line-up of guest singers in Perth Festival’s Rebel Rebel.
With an audience made up of mostly Gen X and Boomers, peppered with a few younger fans, the event delivered an energetic, affectionate and delightfully eccentric tribute to the late musical icon ten years after his passing.
MC Joe Louis Robinson and acclaimed conductor Jessica Gethin guided the evening with charisma and precision. Immersive sound, striking visuals, charming costumes and unique musical interpretations made for an unforgettable night.
The performance unfolded on the Main Stage at the back of the Power Station, surrounded by food trucks, pop-up bars and plenty of seating. The building’s industrial skeleton created a spectacular view and atmosphere.
The side of the building became a canvas for Bowie-inspired moving projections by Perth creative agency The Start. The sheer size of the projection was a spectacle we couldn’t take our eyes off, the colour and imagery captivating too.
Robinson wore a vibrant green suit and kept the night flowing with light-hearted jokes and Bowie trivia. ‘We’re not only here to entertain you, but to educate you,’ he exclaimed, before introducing the talented conductor and singers. His addition of some of Bowie’s most iconic quotes, including his self-description of being a ‘born librarian with a sex drive,’ was a crowd favourite.
Jessica Gethin, who has worked with artists including Blondie – who had a close relationship with Bowie – guided the orchestra in delivering a dynamic setlist.
The rotating lineup of guest singers brought their own unique reimagination to the songs. Abbe May, Rachael Dease, Katy Steele and PSO’s own Matt Milford and Justin Burford delivered confident and lively interpretations.
International cabaret sensation Meow Meow brought her signature blend of chaos and elegance, complete with a moment of crowd surfing. Perth’s own Noah Dillon charmed the audience with his take on Rebel Rebel, featuring the harmonica.
Well-dressed back-up singers Amy Ehlers and Jordan Anthony also deserve recognition for their harmonies and support.
While I expected more of the audience to embrace Bowie-esque costumes, there were a few wigs scattered throughout the crowd, as well as one worn by the lead violinist.
The performers also embraced Bowie’s eccentricity, wearing outfits reflecting their individual personalities. Highlights include Katy Steele glossy silver dress and boots, Meow Meow’s sparkling dress and fluffy green coat and Matt Milford’s purple suit.
Dancers from K2 Dance Company appeared for three of the popular upbeat numbers – Fashion, Young Americans and Rebel Rebel – each time in curated costumes that nodded to the themes of the song without slipping into parody.
The musicians, singers and dancers were having as much fun as the audience. This is an important criterion in performances like these, giving the rest of us permission to let loose and enjoy ourselves. From where I stood, I could see various members of the audience dancing, jumping and singing along. For many of them, the night would have incited decades of memories.
Yet Rebel Rebel wasn’t just nostalgic. It was a testament to Bowie’s unmatched lyrical expertise and ever-evolving persona. The Perth Symphony Orchestra and its guest artists didn’t try to imitate Bowie but rather reinterpret and celebrate him in a visually and aurally stunning performance.
Rebel Rebel was presented by Perth Symphony and ran on 13 February at East Perth Power Station as part of 2026 Perth Festival.
The event has now concluded.
Website: https://www.perthfestival.com.au/program/season-2026/rebel-rebel
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/perthfest/ and https://www.instagram.com/perthsymphony/
Photo credits: Thomas Earnshaw
