Entertainment
30 October, 2026
Trio of musos in popular CBD gig
MUSIC lovers are in for a weekend of live performances and road stories, as Elixir Music House hosts two events featuring touring musicians Ben Jansz, Phoebe Jacobs and Lucy Gallant.
The weekend begins on Friday 30 October, with Mr Jansz performing the final show of his current visit in Cairns and Far North Queensland before continuing his travels.
Spending around five months each year in the region, Mr Jansz has become a familiar face at Elixir Music House, where he regularly performs his distinctive blend of Australian roots, blues, folk rock and tribal trance.
Combining guitar, foot percussion, yidaki, vocals and effects, he creates a layered sound in his one-person performances.
Self-described as an “emotional activist,” he draws on personal experiences to explore themes of heartache, hope and life on the road.
Elixir Music House co-owner Sky Rixon said that Mr Jansz had become a valued member of the venue’s community.
“It’s always an absolute pleasure to have Ben around and we dearly miss him whenever he leaves us,” she said.
The weekend continues Saturday 31 October, when author Emily Rockit brings her national ‘Louder Than Life’ pop-up tour to Cairns, featuring live music, touring stories and book signings.
The free event, starting at 5pm, celebrates Rockit’s book ‘Louder Than Life: The Touring Musician’s Handbook’, which draws on the experiences of more than 30 Australian musicians.
Readings Carlton describes the book as packed with “down-to-earth advice, hilarious stories and hard-earned wisdom from the frontlines.”
Cairns-based musician Phoebe Jacobs, who has performed at Glastonbury and London’s Troubadour, will join Lucy Gallant for live performances.
Gallant’s folk-pop and one-woman show have featured at Glastonbury, Splendour in the Grass, Woodford and Bluesfest.
Together with Rockit, the musicians will share insights into the challenges, rewards and unexpected experiences of touring as independent artists.
Both events are at Elixir Music House, 92 Abbott Street, Cairns.
Tickets for Jansz’s Friday performance are available through his website: www.cnslocal.s.gy/vk73Q7, while Saturday’s Louder Than Life event is free, with registration available at: www.cnslocal.s.gy/ccGKI8
