Singin’ in the Rain: Pub Choir Draws 7000 Songbirds to Riverstage

Despite the looming rain, more than 7000 enthusiastic singers showed up at the Riverstage on Wednesday night for what turned out to be a historic Pub Choir event. Wearing ponchos and carefully navigating through puddles, these spirited participants gathered for a festive fundraiser.

The sold-out event raised an impressive $138,000 for the Women’s Legal Service Queensland. Belinda Edwards, a Pub Choir fan who has attended six events in the past two years, shared that she quickly secured tickets before convincing her friend Pip Wright to join her. “I bought them the day they went on sale because you have to, otherwise you won’t get them,” Edwards recalled.

The Event Experience

The lively occasion aimed to turn a crowd of unfamiliar faces into a united choir through a fun and fast-paced music lesson. This year, participants sang Frankie Valli's hit Can’t Take My Eyes Off You in a vibrant three-part harmony. The night concluded with a grand all-inclusive performance.

Wright, who joked about being persuaded by Edwards, said that despite the rain, she was determined to experience this memorable concert that she had on her bucket list. “If she can do it, I can do it,” Edwards added, referencing her teenager’s recent concert experience in a tropical storm.

Behind the Pub Choir

The founder of Pub Choir, Brisbane local Astrid Jorgensen, started her first concert at West End’s The Bearded Lady in 2017. Drawing from her background as a choir teacher, Jorgensen hoped to prove that everyone has the ability to sing. “Of course you can sing, you just may not be great at it,” she has often told participants.

Seven years into her journey, Jorgensen expressed her excitement about working with such a large group, especially under the stars at Riverstage with a symphony orchestra. “What a way to finish the year. Teaching 7000 people while raising thousands of dollars for charity is simply amazing.”

The Festive Spirit

Among the crowd, a group of friends, dressed in matching Christmas pajamas, brought additional festive cheer to the event. Their tradition of coordinating outfits and securing the best spots at the concert made the night even more special.

Nadia Bromley, the chief executive of the Women’s Legal Service Queensland, expressed her gratitude for the support, stating that the funds raised are essential for the services the organization provides to victims of domestic and family violence.

Looking ahead, Pub Choir is set to return in 2025, with another sold-out event already planned for March in Sydney. Attendees can expect exciting updates, including a video of the group’s final performance that will be released in the coming weeks.

choir, fundraiser, music