The National Rugby League (NRL) today revealed its support for the Australian Music industry by announcing a star-studded all-Aussie music line-up that will deliver two pre-game spectaculars for fans at this year's NRL and NRLW Telstra Premiership Grand Final, to be held at Sydney's Accor Stadium on Sunday 2 October.
As one of the first codes in the world to return to entertain fans through lockdown, the NRL is keenly aware of the hope generated by resilience and the power music had to raise spirits during those times, and wishes to celebrate homegrown talent by offering up their biggest stage. It will be an unparalleled day of celebration.
The dynamic group of performers has been hand-picked to reflect the diversity and authenticity of Rugby League and its fans, bringing together real Australian stars from a range of genres and backgrounds to soundtrack the pinnacle of the NRL and NRLW seasons. The day will feature several performances integrated into the NRLW Grand Final, retiring players tribute and NRL Grand Final.
The NRLW Grand Final will be honoured with its own Pre-Game Show as powerhouse soul & blues vocalist, Mahalia Barnes, Western Sydney's new queen of hip-hop & RnB, A.GIRL, and Emma Donovan team up to deliver a re-imagining of iconic Aussie classic, "The Real Thing".
The NRL Grand Final Pre-Game Show will be headlined by the heart and soul of Australian rock and roll, Jimmy Barnes, with friends including ARIA-winning singer-songwriters, the mighty DIESEL and special guest Josh Teskey, alongside award-winning Indigenous singer-songwriter Emma Donovan.
Break-out Eurovision 2022 star Sheldon Riley will bring his spectacular style to Accor Stadium with a cinematic and unique performance.
Australian hip-hop legends Bliss n Eso (featuring JOY.) will perform their hit, "Moments", paying tribute to the game's retiring players.
Jimmy Barnes said: "Grand Final Day is a chance for us to all come together and celebrate with the best of the best. I can't wait to perform with an exciting all-Australian Pre-Game Show line up in front of a full house again."
Mahalia Barnes added: "I'm really looking forward to singing with A.GIRL and Emma Donovan at the 2022 NRLW Grand Final's First Ever Pre-Game Show. It's going to be a great afternoon filled with music and footy. Let's hear it for the girls!"
The pre-game entertainment will also include a National Anthem performance by Alinta Chidzey, star of Moulin Rouge! The Musical - The Broadway Spectacular.
"What an honour it is to sing the National Anthem before one of the most exciting games in Australian sport. Just before the Grand Final game kicks off is so electrifying as it's when all the nerves and excitement are at a peak. The whole stadium comes together, united in anticipation, before it all begins."
Tickets for an UNREAL day of entertainment at the NRL Grand Final are available now from nrl.com/tickets, with adult tickets starting from $99, juniors from $89 and family passes (two adults and two juniors) offering superb value from $289.
