One of the pioneers of performing in the name of charity, Toni Stevens, is bringing her latest show to Wagga audiences in June to 'entertain the oldies and educate the youngins'.
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Stevens has sung, performed and owned the stage in a multitude of global locations, but said the Wagga region held a special place in her heart.
"My family have been in Australia for years and they're used to me flitting off here and there, so now it's lovely to settle with my children, two grandchildren and two great grandchildren, some of which live in Albury," she said.
"My granddaughter is actually turning one year old on June 20 so it's exciting to come down for that."
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Her career in variety performances has not only sent her far and wide but also brought the gift of friendship.
"Two of my dearest friends, who have been so for over 40 years now, I met in Wagga through my shows," Stevens said.
"I stayed at a place called Zebra Court Hotel. Bill was a chef there and Una ran the bar, so friendship is one of the many perks of touring."
Founder of The Australian Ladies Variety Association, Stevens has dedicated most of her working life to charity, following in the footsteps of her father.
"I started charity work through my dad who was an accordion player on the side of his day job," she said.
"I gave up my work because I kept falling asleep at typewriter, and Mum didn't talk to me for a week until she realised it was for good.
"I would go around performing at hospitals, nursing homes, and even prisons, then developed a taste for stand-up comedy after being sent to Germany in the 60s to entertain American Troops."
Performing alongside Stevens at her Wagga show will be Italian musician and singer Joey Fimmano.
"I'll be doing the comedy and singing all the old fashioned songs, whereas Joey does all the baby boomer era songs," Stevens said.
The show will be held at Wagga Commercial Club on Wednesday, June 26.