A new live production, The Understudy, is set to captivate audiences with an unprecedented fusion of classic Australian rock history and cutting-edge stage technology.
This one-of-a-kind show honours the iconic music of John Paul Young and Stevie Wright, brought to life by the legendary musicians who helped shape their sound: The AllStar Band.
A band with a legacy
The AllStar Band began their journey behind the beloved Easybeats frontman, Stevie Wright, later becoming the powerhouse band behind Aussie icon, John Paul Young.
Their unmistakable musicianship defined an era, and three original members return to the stage for this special event — including the incomparable Michael “China” Walker who joined The AllStar Band in the early 80’s, spending two years as their roadie, before stepping onto the stage as a keyboardist, guitarist, and backing vocalist.
A gifted multi-instrumentalist, China became the group’s indispensable safety net — the one who could step into any role when needed. He became: “The Understudy.”
A holographic spectacle unlike anything seen before
The Understudy pushes creative boundaries with a bold and emotional visual concept.
The show opens with Michael “China” Walker performing live on stage — alongside holographic versions of himself, each playing a different instrument.
This striking sequence pays tribute to China’s role as the ultimate musical understudy, capable of filling any position within the band.
As the holograms dissolve, the real AllStar Band takes the stage, igniting the room with the unmistakable energy that defined decades of Australian rock.
In one heartfelt tribute, one hologram remains: the band’s beloved guitarist who passed away during the COVID period, will play his iconic solo with the rest of the band.
His presence honours his legacy and ensures he remains part of the music he helped create.
The Understudy delivers a nostalgic yet forward-looking experience.
Anchored by 40 years of touring shenanigans, the show delivers hit after hit with the raw energy and polish of those that have been on the road since before Molly had a hat — plus the kind of racy road stories that make you feel like you’re still sitting in the back of the tour bus!
The line up reads like a who’s who of Australian music royalty:
- Michael “China” Walker – master of piano and guitar from JPY and The AllStar Band·
- Shane Crooks – the driving force on Bass from The AllStar Band
- Peter Deacon– legendary Keyboard from Jon English and the Foster Brothers
- Tim Gaze – guitar virtuoso from Rose Tattoo and The AllStar Band
- Mitch Farmer – the incomparable drummer for Tommy Emmanuel
- Steve Mulry – powerhouse vocalist and brother of the late Ted Mulry (TMG)
The Understudy
When: Thursday 11 June at 2.30 pm
Where: Moncrieff Entertainment Centre, 177 Bourbong Street, Bundaberg
Tickets available for purchase here.
