Details

Direct from New York, experience dynamic spoken word, musical histrionics, and provocative musical poetry.

Witness two of New York’s most notorious and daring performers as acclaimed artists and artful provocateurs Lydia Lunch & Joseph Keckler perform Tales of Lust and Madness in an Australian debut. Combining the dynamic spoken word of Lydia Lunch and the musical histrionics of Joseph Keckler, experience a one-of-a-kind evening in the intimate Primrose Potter Salon.

Lydia Lunch

Passionate, confrontational, and bold, Lydia Lunch is the ‘punk poet queen of extremities’ (The Independent). An American musician, poet, and writer since the 1970’s, Lydia has fronted her own bands such as Teenage Jesus and the Jerks, 8 Eyed Spy, and Shotgun Wedding, and has been the subject of her own life documentary, ‘The War is Never Over’. Having collaborated with luminaries Nick Cave, Henry Rollins, and Sonic Youth, Lydia’s unparalleled artistry cements her status as an ‘influential, groundbreaking, and seminal artist’ (Time Out). Whether attacking the patriarchy, turning the sexual into political or whispering a love song to the broken hearted, Lydia’s fierce energy and rapid-fire delivery lend testament to her warrior nature in this unforgettable set.

‘Still, if you think Lunch is just your garden variety nihilist, you’re wrong. It’s a mark of cowardice, in fact, to mistake her disillusion for defeat. The passion of her fury is the best testimony to her lack of cynicism.’ – NY Daily News

Joseph Keckler

Hailed by The New York Times as a ‘major talent who shatters the conventional boundaries,’ don’t miss singer, writer, and composer Joseph Keckler as he takes the stage in the opening set. Known for his stirring voice, vivid prose, and performances that dance between comedy, commentary, and communion, Joseph zeroes in on moments from daily life and transforms them into absurd and affecting underworld voyages. With appearances at NPR’s Tiny Desk series, Lincoln Center, and Centre Pompidou, his impeccable delivery and distinct storytelling make for a memorable experience.

‘…major talent who shatters the conventional boundaries.’ – The New York Times

A perfect pairing, Joseph Keckler is the light to Lydia Lunch’s shade.

Travel Disruptions

Please note, planned protest events may cause disruption to public transport and the road network in and around the CBD on Saturday 16 March. As this may impact your visit to the Centre, please ensure you plan ahead, to allow enough time to arrive and be seated by the start time.

Caring for Our Community

Melbourne Recital Centre is committed to the safety of our artists, staff and patrons. A range of public health, hygiene and physical distancing measures are currently in place. Click here to learn more.

Artists & Set Times

Artists

Lydia Lunch vocals
Joseph Keckler vocals, piano

Set Times

6pm Performance
6pm – 6.45pm: Joseph Keckler
6.45pm – 7.05pm: Interval
7.05pm – 7.50pm: Lydia Lunch

9pm Performance
9pm – 9.45pm: Joseph Keckler
9.45pm – 10.05pm: Interval
10.05pm – 10.50pm: Lydia Lunch

Please note, running times are approximate and subject to change.