SBS invites viewers to warm up their vocal cords with actor and TV host Julia Zemiro and actor Miranda Tapsell for Australia’s Biggest Singalong! The two-hour musical event will be broadcast live on SBS, NITV and SBS On Demand on Saturday 5 June at 8.30pm AEST.
In an Australian television first, the team behind Pub Choir are inviting the nation to join Australian musicians and vocalists to learn some classic Australian songs, including Throw Your Arms Around Me by Hunters and Collectors. Guided by Pub Choir co-founder and choirmaster, Astrid Jorgensen, viewers will learn to sing this Australian anthem. Hunters and Collectors lead singer Mark Seymour will join the broadcast for the final performance.
From pubs across Australia to people’s loungeroom, everyone of any singing ability is invited to join in. SBS is encouraging audience members to submit videos of themselves singing Throw Your Arms Around Me via sbs.com.au/singalong for their chance to have their personal rendition featured during the broadcast.
Julia Zemiro said: “Is there anything more joyful than hundreds of voices singing in harmony? It’s thrilling just thinking about it. I love singing in a choir, a group, with friends and strangers. We have created this event as a wonderful opportunity for all Australians. Everyone should get the chance to experience the true delight that is singing in a choir and learning such an iconic song together. We can promise you a night full of incredible storytelling, entertainment and unrelenting enthusiasm.”
Miranda Tapsell said: “I am thrilled to be co-hosting such a bold and beautiful event for SBS. Australia’s Biggest Singalong! is a celebration of the power of music and will be a truly unique television experience. We invite everyone to join us from wherever you are. Don’t be shy, bring whatever singing pipes you got!!!”
Mark Seymour said: “I am delighted that SBS has chosen Throw Your Arms Around Me for Australia’s Biggest Singalong! At its heart it’s a song about love and this event is all about bringing people together through the greatest unifier we have, music. I can’t wait to join the stage for what’s sure to be an incredible rendition of this song.”
SBS director of television and online content, Marshall Heald said: “We are so excited to bring this one-of-a-kind television event to our audience. SBS recognises the cultural significance singing has played over the course of time in strengthening identities, languages and bringing people together. Australia’s Biggest Singalong! connects Australians from all walks of life, amplifying diverse voices and unifying a diverse nation through song.”
Astrid Jorgensen said: “I won’t stop until I’ve convinced every person in Australia that their singing voice is already good enough to share with others! Music belongs to all of us, and Australia’s Biggest Singalong! is exactly what we need to remind ourselves that we are always better when we work together.”
Australia’s Biggest Singalong! is produced by Artemis Media for SBS.
Australia’s Biggest Singalong! premieres Saturday 5 June, 8.30pm AEST live on SBS, NITV and on SBS On Demand.