For three weeks this January-February, Redland Performing Centre (RPAC) in Queensland is inviting audiences to a backstage experience like no other: Stage Door Sessions.
It's a series designed to bring audiences up close and personal with some of Australia’s most talented artists – and there's a smorgasbord of talents and genres. . . From comedy, to cabaret, to big band music. At the heart of this season’s line-up is Australian musical theatre and cabaret performer Queenie van de Zandt, who brings her latest show, 'DIVA', to RPAC. A celebration of iconic female singers, 'DIVA' isn’t just about the music – it’s a deeply personal exploration of the artists who have shaped Queenie’s life and career.
“'DIVA' is a show that celebrates the world’s most iconic female singers through songs and stories,” Queenie shares. “It weaves together personal anecdotes about how these artists have influenced my life, both personally and professionally. Some I’ve performed in tribute shows, while others have shaped my musical journey in meaningful ways.”
This unique approach to storytelling is what makes Stage Door Sessions so special. Cabaret in this setting creates an energy unlike any other. “The intimacy of sitting at tables right on the stage creates a personal connection, with no barriers – you’re not hidden behind lights, you’re right there with them,” Queenie explains. “It generates a beautiful, shared energy, like a vibration in the air, where everyone feels part of the experience.”
For Queenie, performing at RPAC is more than just another gig – it’s a dream come true. “When I lived here in the 2000s, Redland Performing Arts Centre was always on my radar. I dreamed of performing here, as I saw it as a beautiful part of Brisbane. So when they invited me, it was an easy yes.”
The connection between performer and audience is the beating heart of 'DIVA', and it’s clear that Queenie cherishes this aspect of her work. “I love being of service and making a positive impact through what I do. Seeing people react – whether with laughter, tears, or deep reflection – reminds me of the power of music and storytelling.”
More than just a tribute to great women in music, 'DIVA' is also a reflection on their contributions to the industry and the way they’ve shaped Queenie’s own artistic journey. “Someone asked me to write a retrospective on my career, which felt like a strange challenge – trying to condense 35 years in the industry into a 60-minute show. Instead of a broad overview, I decided to focus on something meaningful: the incredible women in music who often don’t receive the same recognition as men. That became the anchor for the show.”
Beyond its deeply personal storytelling, 'DIVA' also serves a greater purpose: bringing people together. “Connection is what we’re missing in society, and it’s proven that connecting with others can actually make us happier and even help us live longer,” Queenie reflects. “So, for all those reasons, just get yourself to the theatre – get in that seat.”
The Stage Door Sessions at RPAC offer more than just an evening of world-class entertainment. They invite audiences into an intimate, immersive experience, where every laugh, every note, and every shared moment resonates long after the show ends. Whether you’re a long-time theatre lover or new to the magic of cabaret, this is a series that proves live performance isn’t just about watching – it’s about connecting.
Stage Door Sessions is on at Redland Performing Arts Centre (Queensland) from 31 January-15 February. Queenie van de Zandt's 'DIVA' is performed on 8 February.
