Heralding in a new face in Cabaret; Hilary Jean Watts embodies the musical legacy of Laura Nyro in her returning Melbourne Fringe 2024 performance of Stoney End: The Songs of Laura Nyro. A virtuosic musical event.

Nyro’s music honours the defiant resilience of young women. Through her music the audience is taken on a journey of love and loss and the humbling reverence of what it is to live, to be defeated and then to rise again. It is an expression of the greatest rebellion; to be your authentic self.

Laura Nyro’s critically acclaimed body of work encompasses a unique and eccentric fusion of pop, soul, jazz and folk styles that have supercharged the careers of artists such as Barbara Streisand (“Stoney End”), Blood Sweat and Tears (“And When I Die”) Three Dog Night (Eli’s Coming”) and the 5th Dimension ("Stoned Soul Picnic", "Wedding Bell Blues", "Blowin' Away" and "Save the Country”).

Watts’ smoky soulful vocals matched with her alluring stage presence transcends the music, capturing the complexity of Nyro’s lyricism in songs "Been on a Train", "Tom Cat Goodbye" and many more.

Originally from Melbourne Australia, Hilary Jean Watts is a performing artist and designer. Having worked extensively as an actor, singer, theatre maker, costume and fashion designer, Hilary knows Laura Nyro’s songbook intimately. She discovered Nyro’s music while searching for Carol King bootlegs on Apple Music 15 years ago. Having discovered Nyro’s music while studying musical theatre, it cemented a desire to explore and revere Nyro’s songs as the astonishing musical landmarks that they are. Hilary notes that the pandemic gave her time to reflect and reconnect with the music that fuelled her artistry. The emotional intensity and sheer vocal athleticism in performing Nyro’s music is an artistic curiosity that continually draws her back into this songbook.

Laura Nyro’s music sustains an ever growing unique cult following as a poet, songwriter and vocalist. Her music has been linked to feminist movements, animal rights and environmental activism. Audiences that enjoy the cabaret theatre of Ute Lemper ,Camille O’Sullivan and Bette Milder paired with the music of the 1960s and 1970s, will greatly admire the show. Vintage vinyl lovers who crave the search for unique and energetic sounds will love to witness this musical fusion of soul, jazz and pop rock.

Stoney End. The Songs of Laura Nyro is a musical event and an invitation to witness a deep collaboration with artist and muse, and the catharsis and imagination that unfolds and binds them

“Gorgeous songbook, stunning vocals, and a tight band. Such a fantastic gig!”

“As someone with no knowledge of Laura Nyro's music, I came away hugely impressed. Phenomenal singing from Hilary Watts and a very enjoyable hour”

“The show was spellbinding. Hilary poured her heart and soul into every song. The band supported her beautifully. Loved every minute !”

“Stoney End is a gorgeous, intimate, feel-good show. Hilarys vocals and performance are simply stunning, as are the lush 5 piece band.”