California dreaming: the music of the Hollywood Hills is coming to Geelong

STAFF WRITER

A star-studded ensemble of Australian musicians will revive the sun-drenched melodies of the 1960s as a hit tribute to the Laurel Canyon era arrives for a new run of performances.

The production, Songs From The Canyon, pays homage to the legendary musical village in the Hollywood Hills, which served as a haven for artists like Joni Mitchell, Crosby Stills & Nash and The Mamas & The Papas.

The 2026 tour follows four consecutive years of sold-out shows across the country.

The lineup features a collective of acclaimed talent, including Husky Gawenda, Dan Kelly and Charm of Finches, alongside Alma Zygier, Stephen Grady and Dan Challis.

Audiences can expect reimagined takes on classics such as California Dreamin’, Mr Tambourine Man and God Only Knows.

The 2026 iteration of the show will also introduce seven new songs to the setlist, five of which have never been performed as part of the production before.

The concept was born 17 years ago when artist manager Rick Chazan was inspired by a late-night acoustic performance in Brisbane.

His vision was to capture the intimate, harmony-rich atmosphere of the 1960s “counterculture” era specifically for seated theatre venues.

The tour will arrive at Geelong Arts Centre on 23 October. Head to songsfromthecanyon.com