Love classic rock? These two Joburg shows bring Queen and The Eagles back to life

Good news for those who missed out: "Queen: It’s a Kinda Magic", the sensational tribute show, has returned to Joburg Theatre.

Apparently, it's bigger, better, and louder than ever - a feat I honestly didn't think possible when I interviewed Warren Vernon-Driscoll, who embodies the rock legend Freddie Mercury, a year ago.

He helms the show on lead vocals, guitar and piano live on stage.

When I chatted with Vernon-Driscoll, he said he landed the gig by accident.

“I went to one of Showtime Australia’s shows. A friend invited me, and I think I was his third choice. So I went to this show. I was looking for a job at the time. I used to busk at markets with my guitar and sing wherever I could for money,” he shared.

“I just asked for an email address to audition. I wanted a backing singer job, essentially. I just wanted to be a part of something. I met with Johnny (Van Grinsven) and our producer on a Monday, and by Friday, we were making plans for the show. It just happened so quickly.”

Since touring with the show, he has fine-tuned his performance.

In case you are wondering what to expect, Vernon Discoll says, “First of all, the show isn’t a musical. There is no narrative. This is a straight-up rock concert. We want you to close your eyes and feel like you are watching Queen Live.

“We’ve got all the outlandish costumes that Freddie wore, all the intense lighting rigs and Rusty, who plays Brian May, uses a replica of his guitar.

“I even wear the same boxing boots that Freddie wore on stage, and those were a mission to source. We’ve taken that much detail to recreate the Queen experience.”

Fans can look forward to a set list that includes “We Will Rock You”, “We Are the Champions”, “Radio Ga Ga”, “I Want to Break Free”, “Somebody to Love”, “Don’t Stop Me Now”, “Another One Bites the Dust”, “A Kind of Magic”, “Bohemian Rhapsody” and more.

Where: Mandela Theatre at Joburg Theatre.

When: From January 30 to February 8, 7.30pm. Weekend times differ.

Hotel California - The Eagles Experience

In keeping with the live concert experience theme, this is another show worth checking out. 

Relive the glory of the Eagles with a live stage performance featuring show-stopping vocalists and musicians.

This meticulously crafted tribute showcases the beautiful country harmonies, electrifying rock solos and masterful songwriting that defined the band.

Experience chart-topping classics and genre-blending hits, including "Hotel California", "Desperado", "Take It Easy", "One of These Nights", "Tequila Sunrise", "Love Will Keep Us Alive", "Best of My Love", and many more.

Where: Mandela Theatre at Joburg Theatre.

When: January 23 to 25, times differ.