Meet Alternate Billie Holiday Elenoa Rokobaro

Pictured: Elenoa Rokobaro on stage with Kym Purling on piano

We chat to Alternate Performer Elenoa Rokobaro, winner of a Sydney Theatre Award for Best Female Actor in a Leading Role in the acclaimed Caroline, Or Change, about taking on the iconic role of Billie Holiday in LADY DAY AT EMERSON’S BAR & GRILL, our co-production with Belvoir St Theatre and Melbourne Theatre Company.

Why are you excited to be part of LADY DAY AT EMERSON’S BAR & GRILL?

I am so humbled to be able play the role of Miss Billie Holiday, on several occasions throughout the season. It’s such an honour to witness the wonderful Zahra Newman share her gift with so much grace.

I am also so grateful to ‘The gift that keeps on giving’ that is Mr Mitchell Butel, directing me in the telling of Billie Holiday’s life, he never ceases to amaze me. He has assembled such incredible musicians, such as the lovely Kym Purling as our Musical Director and the cool cats on Double Bass, the legendary Victor Rounds and the ever so suave Calvin Welch on Drums.

I am just a big kid taking it all in.

What do you most admire about Billie Holiday?

What I admire about Billie Holiday is that she was a trail blazer, an unapologetic one at that.  Her skill set is what set her apart from the rest.

What is your favourite Billie Holiday song to perform?

My favourite Billie Holiday song to perform in the show would have to be ‘Deep Song’.

What do you think audiences can expect when they see the show?

What audiences can expect from seeing Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill is true appreciation of Billie Holiday’s life and love of music.

For more information on Elenoa’s performances, please contact tickets@statetheatrecompany.com.au or call 08 8415 5333.