Former Glenbrook singer Liza Ohlback has stepped outside her comfort zone to pay homage to one of the world's most famous singers.
Ohlback stars as Janis Joplin in Pearl - The Janis Joplin Story, which tours NSW and Queensland from March.
The production, the brainchild of former Nepean High graduate and Emu Plains resident Chris Keeble, took four months to write, and is an intimate look at the life of the talented singer who died in 1970 of a heroin overdose at just 27.
Pearl - The Janis Joplin Story, delivers in words and music Joplin's tumultuous outlook on life, love and being the first lady of rock who got a little dirty.
Her critically acclaimed album Pearl, released after her death, was embraced by the world as a triumphant album that fuses, rock, jazz and blues with a gritty flavour that marked an era of change.
Rather than being a tribute act, the production pays homage to the singer, who Keeble described as a "fragile creature".
From being bullied in school, to being voted the "ugliest guy in college [university]", and hanging out with a band of misfits, she started to become what she was being labelled as, "a get-about and a tramp".
"She was constantly searching for acceptance, validation and approval," Keeble said.
"She was openly bisexual, had tattoos, and was determined to push the boundaries of society at the time," Keeble explained. "In an attempt to be accepted."
Intrigued by Joplin's character and noticing the resurgence of a bohemian vibe, Keeble decided a production about Janis Joplin's life was in order.
And she thought Ohlback's sensational vocals, which are often compared to Aretha Franklin, could do the singer justice.
Ohlback, a blues singer with elements of jazz, soul and funk, said it was an exciting and challenging production to be involved with.
"First there was rock and blues, but she [Joplin] did quite a bit of soul and jazz as well, so to sing that you've got to have a huge range.
"It's a good challenge and I like it ... it's quite physical because she's so passionate and out there."
Pearl - The Janis Joplin Story, includes hits such as Cry Baby, Move Over, Piece of My Heart, Bobby McGee and more.
Also featured are songs from Joplin's greatest influences such as Bessie Smith, Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen.
The production is coming to the Evan Theatre at Penrith Panthers on August 29 and to the Carrington Hotel's Baroque Room on September 5.
Tickets will be available closer to the date on the website: www.pearljanisjoplin.com.au.
