This was supposed to be an article about the 2024 Live Music Lake Mac program, which kicks off this weekend, Friday 19 April. 

The collection of events runs through to October and offers a chance to enjoy music in the region’s unique lakeside theatres during the cooler months. 

Presented by Lake Macquarie City Council, the popular annual series showcases the talents of both well-known national artists and emerging local musicians. 

I was going to tell you that the program provides an opportunity to get up close and personal with a genre of art that you may not be familiar with, possibly reigniting your creative juices. 

I was going to suggest you book tickets to one of the options you were unfamiliar with and just enjoy some “live” music for about $50. 

But, then I read the opening night details and felt I should jump in here and let you know that if you haven’t seen Hot Potato Band yet, then you really should get to this show. 

Described as a “larger-than-life brass collective”, this band transcends explanation. 

Its members are energetic, passionate musicians and their performance is unique and energising. 

They bring what can only be described as an interactive approach to stage shows, using timeless instruments in new ways. 

Yes, I agree it’s an unusual name and, yes, I was wondering about the Wiggles connection myself too, but don’t worry, the only comparison is that a night with Hot Potato Band will make you laugh and feel like jumping about like a kid in a big red car. 

And, what they bring can best be described as pure joy. 

If you don’t believe me, ask anyone who was at last year’s Feast for the Senses event at Speers Point Park. 

There was much laughter, a few tapping toes and head nods, and a whole lot of smiles – so many that I didn’t stop to get a photo on my phone at the time. 

Hot Potato Band will launch the 2024 Live Music Lake Mac program on Friday 19 April at Rathmines Theatre, nawayiba. 

Other dates on the program include a performance by ARIA-nominated Indigenous singer-songwriter Emma Donovan, who will perform her Songs, Stories and Soul from Family and Country show at Warners Bay Theatre, baramayiba on 16 May. 

The Buddy Knox Project will deliver unforgettable blues at the same venue on 24 July. 

Golden Guitar winners Darlinghurst round out the program with a show supported by Lake Mac singer-songwriter Piper Butcher at Warners Bay Theatre, baramayiba on 11 October. 

For more entertainment inspo:

• Spiegeltent returns to Newcastle
• What’s On
• Tones and I sets date for Newcastle gig

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