Woodenbox with a Fistful of Fivers - Great Southern Nights

Civic Theatre Newcastle presents a Great Southern Nights event

Great Southern Nights 2025 takes place from 21 March – 6 April 2025 featuring 300+ gigs across Sydney and New South Wales.  

Mariachi folk sextet Woodenbox (née ‘with a Fistful of Fivers’) return to lead singers and songwriter, Ali Downer's adopted hometown of Newcastle for a special performance.

Woodenbox burst on to the Scottish music scene in 2008 causing a raucous with their distinct foot-stomping folk rock, coupled with their mariachi band sound. Incorporating a range of genres such as blues, Americana, and country, the band’s pulsating sound saw the band receiving airplay on BBC Radio 1, BBC Radio 2 and 6Music. Following extensive tours across the UK and numerous various festival appearances, the band were invited out to Texas music to play at SXSW in 2011.
 
After originally performing solo under the guise of Woodenbox, the foundation of folk-rock music collectives thumping sound was born after Downer’s drafted in long-time friend, Nick Dudman on drums. More members soon followed and so the vibrant sextet were formed.
 
Exhibiting several prolonged nods to the work of legendary composer Ennio Morricone – thanks in no small part to a prominent horn section – the resulting sound pulled together elements of folk and country. From their more laidback, reflective moments to full-on barn-raising anthems, Downer’s old school storytelling style is augmented by dense harmonies.

Supported by Skelter

Running time to be advised. Times are approximate and subject to change without notice.