Blakout: Jess Hitchcock

Next date: Wednesday, 04 June 2025 | 07:30 PM

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Jess Hitchcock, a Melbourne-based First Nations singer-songwriter, is a genre-defying force in the music and performing arts scene. Known for her powerful voice and captivating storytelling, Jess has excelled across pop, country, folk, opera, and music theatre, sharing the stage and studio with industry favourites. This performance is part of the inaugural Blakout series.

With heritage from the Torres Strait Islands and Papua New Guinea, Jess Hitchcock’s artistic diversity and adroitness are seldom seen in someone as young as she is. The way she navigates her creative path is a rare find and truly remarkable.

One of Jess’s most notable collaborations is with legendary singer-songwriter Paul Kelly. Together, they performed and recorded Paul’s song, ‘Everyday My Mother’s Voice’, earning standing ovations across the nation. You can occasionally find Jess in Paul’s band, performing vocals and percussion. Jess has also collaborated with Archie Roach, Tina Arena, and Kate Miller-Heidke. Jess’s much-anticipated album, Unbreakable, was released in mid-2023 and reached #4 on the AIR charts. Her original material is as dramatic as it is playful, always showcasing her vocal prowess. Unbreakable‘s first single, ‘I Don’t Have The Heart’, was described by The Music as “an arena-sized pop ballad.”

When Jess is not on stage with her own band or joining forces with music legends, she lends her mezzo-soprano vocals to select performing arts companies, including the MSO, SSO, Bangarra Dance Theatre, Victorian Opera, West Australian Opera, and Opera Queensland.

Audiences can look forward to an electrifying performance, featuring powerful vocals and captivating storytelling.

Make a meal of it! The music gets underway at 7.30pm, but arrive a bit earlier if you can. From 6.30pm, enjoy pre-show dinner and drinks at The Count’s Italian-style kitchen and bar.

This show is proudly part of Blakout. Blakout is a bold celebration of First Nations talent, shining a spotlight on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists from Reconciliation Week to NAIDOC Week. Experience a deadly mix of music and dance, with a multi-generational lineup that brings powerful First Nations storytelling to life.