Mitch Tambo @ Space Theatre, Adelaide

“Tonight, I’m the DJ, so anything can happen,” Mitch Tambo proclaimed. Anything did happen, and it was spectacular!

Dressed in a striking blend of cultural regalia and contemporary style, Tambo’s presence was magnetic from his poignant Acknowledgement of Country. What followed was a performance full of power, pride and disco-pop sparkle. In this Tarntanya/ Adelaide exclusive, the Australian world music star delivered a set that was deeply personal and undeniably entertaining.

The proud Gamilaraay musician treated us to an eclectic mix of music. With backing vocals by The Black Sistaz, Tambo began with Yugal Yulu-gi, Bandaar and Dhiidhaan, blending traditional and modern elements with ease in a style that felt fresh and grounded at once. Then, Heal and Love highlighted his emotive and vocal strength. Whether performing his original songs or breathing new life into iconic anthems, he held the crowd in the palm of his hand.12/6/2025

Tambo’s unique reimaging of classic Australian songs was remarkable. Great Southern Land (Icehouse) and You’re the Voice (John Farnham) – sung predominantly in Gamilaraay – had the audience clapping along and smiling widely.

His storytelling between songs gave the night its beating heart. He shared reflections on identity, resilience and his connection with Country with openness and charm, never slowing the momentum.
However, it was the final Act of the show that was the stuff legends are made of.

Entering his disco era, Tambo powered through Dreamtime Princess, Hokey Pokey (yes, you read that correctly), and Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star. There was also a little country/ hip hop mix that rivalled the Macarena.

What began as a serene Cabaret show concluded with an eruption into a wild, sequin-studded dance floor frenzy, part late-night party, part theatrical fever dream.

The thunderous standing ovation was highly warranted. But as the house lights came up, there was a sigh of disappointment the show had ended.

Accepting the end had arrived, we prepared to leave. Then, unexpectedly, Tambo returned to the stage for an unplanned “organic encore,” much to everyone’s delight. For one more song, the dance party continued like a confetti cannon had gone off, wild, bright and gloriously off-script.

This wasn’t just a night of great music; it was a celebration of voice in all its forms. Tambo’s voice—musical, cultural, political—reverberated with clarity and conviction, joy and hope.

Mitch Tambo’s genre-bending performance was Cabaret with conscience and a beat you can dance to. A gem of this year’s Cabaret Festival.

Cabaret Festival Review By Anita Kertes

Photo Credit: Claudio Raschella