Anthony Callea’s Connections National Tour 2026 The Astor Theatre Perth.
I headed to the Astor Theatre last night for Anthony Callea’s The CONNECTION Tour — and Perth’s second show of the national run, which began in Geelong earlier in the week. The theatre was packed with fans ready to sing along, soak it all up and hear that voice in person. We’d checked out his career from afar, but this was my first time seeing Anthony live. Let’s just say I now understand the fuss.
Anthony brings the sort of charisma that makes an intimate show feel like a very entertaining catch-up with a friend — if your friend happens to have an extraordinary voice and can turn just about anything into a song. The music was mixed with honesty, quirky moments and plenty of stories about his journey: his supportive family, the ski clothes from St Vinnies, and the mystery of where his mum hides the chocolate from his dad (in the garage fridge, for anyone taking notes).
There were plenty of laughs and a few knowing nods from the crowd. It was warm, funny and very relatable — proof that even the people we’ve watched on TV for years are still just people, working their way through life like the rest of us.
He spoke openly about his relationships with music and the artists who’ve inspired him, as well as his loving husband Tim and their life together. The story about their celebration and the frozen flowers from Europe was another crowd-pleaser. There was even a story involving Mr Holden, Welcome Home and car hands-free that had us laughing. I won’t spoil the details — some stories are best heard from Anthony himself, with the facial expressions and timing included.
Backed by a brilliant band (Corey, Rocky, Suzie and Angus), Anthony gave the audience a lovely mix of classics, covers and newer material. His takes on the Jack Jones and Sinéad O’Connor songs were particular favourites of mine, while “Human Nature”, “Rain” and “All of Me” were highlights. His version of Calum Scott’s “Boys in the Street” brought a more sombre, emotive moment, and “You Saved Me Tonight” was another one I loved.
And then came “The Prayer”. I’ve seen quite a few live performances, but that one gave me proper goosebumps — the kind you can’t blame on the air-conditioning. Anthony’s vocal range is elite, awe-inspiring and, frankly, seems a little unfair to the rest of us trying to sing along in the car. A beautiful human with an angelic voice and excellent fashion sense. Some people really do get the full package.
What made the night special was the balance: heartfelt songs, big vocals, personal stories and enough humour to keep the whole room smiling. Anthony shared himself freely, reminding us that performers are human too — even when they make hitting those notes look suspiciously easy.
Massive thanks to Anthony Callea’s team and the Astor Theatre for the access. If you get the chance to see The CONNECTION Tour, go. You’ll hear an incredible voice, have a laugh, and probably leave feeling a little more connected — which is exactly what the night promised.
For the full tour listing and ticket details hit the link below