Anthonie Tonnon to play Ward Observatory

Anthonie Tonnon will play at Whanganui's Ward Observatory next Friday. Photo by Kate Van Der Drift

Anthonie Tonnon won himself fans when he played with the Chills and the People at the Royal Wanganui Opera House in April this year.

It was his first time playing at the opera house and he has chosen another landmark building for his return performance on December 22 - the Ward Observatory.

After his performance in the hall adjoining the observatory, Tonnon hopes his audience will join him for some stargazing.

"I love the fact that the observatory is home to New Zealand's largest refractor telescope - it will be a privilege to play there.

"I hope the weather will be permitting for some stargazing as well."

The performance comes at the end of Tonnon's tour to promote his new single and Extended Player, Two Free Hands.

Radio New Zealand listeners will be familiar with the track which has had frequent airplay recently.

Tonnon's songs have been described as "groovily cynical" and his smooth pleasant voice and catchy tunes make for relaxed listening until one registers his punchy lyrics.

Last month Tonnon joined a collaboration between Dunedin Symphony Orchestra, music director­ singer-composer Graeme Downes, conductor Peter Adams and past and present Dunedin music luminaries for Tally Ho! 2

The celebration of the "Dunedin Sound" got rave reviews and Tonnon was singled out for praise for his performance of Sugar in the Petrol Tank.

Since releasing the album Successor, which picked up nominations for both the Taite Prize and The APRA Silver Scroll in 2015, Tonnon has toured extensively, supporting The Veils and Nadia Reid in North America and Europe, and The Chills on a thorough tour of New Zealand towns, as well as his own headline tours in the USA and Australasia.

Over that time, Tonnon has developed a one-of-a-kind show that combines both electronic and traditional instrumentalism, theatricality and dance.

Tonnon has also had another goal in mind - making Whanganui his home and next week's show coincides with his move here.

"This will be a chance to see the show in an intimate setting at one of Whanganui's cultural and scientific landmarks," says Tonnon.

Anthonie Tonnon: Ward Observatory, Friday, December 22 at 8.30pm. Tickets are $16 presale from anthonietonnon.com, and $20 on the door.