The COVID-19 crisis closed the doors of the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC)  in March, cancelling many much-anticipated cultural events this year. Since then the smart folk who manage the centre have come up with some innovative ways to entertain audiences, re-opening venues, albeit with strict guidelines. Hence the QPAC Unlocked series of music theatre, cabaret, classical music and comedy performances showcasing local talent in some unique spaces for intimate audiences. A simple but highly effective idea.

The concert hall in reverse mode with distanced spectators placed on the stage, hosted world-class flamenco guitarist, Andrew Veivers, accompanied by a string quintet from the multi-talented Camerata, Queensland’s Chamber Orchestra, in a Spanish-inspired program. Based on the highly successful Veinte Aňos, Veiver’s Flamenco Fire concert in 2019, this modest version was programmed by Veivers and Camerata Artistic Director, Brendan Joyce, delivering a musical evening that shimmered with gorgeous music, much fun and joyous panache.

Andrew Veivers. Photograph supplied

Veivers, acknowledged for his riveting and emotive sonority on the Spanish guitar, played his own compositions alongside both traditional Sevillian and Andalusian music in new orchestrations, with some being beautifully arranged by Michael Patterson, the concert’s violist.

Veivers commenced...