Seasoned vocalist ready to take on Jazz & Soul

Not too long ago, Maddie Tomilap (Year 12) captivated audiences as one of the Ronettes in the Little Shop of Horrors. She then wowed crowds at the Town Hall as one of the lead vocalists at The Big Sing. Now, she's ready to bring her powerful, soaring vocals to Jazz and Soul, Avcol's upcoming musical showcase.

Maddie will perform alongside Avcol's top jazz and contemporary groups, including AD Soul, jazz combos, and the Avondale College Big Band, which feature classic and modern songs. The impressive lineup also includes Head Prefect, Jed O'Brien playing trumpet in the Big Band and his jazz combo, as well as the Swing 46 combo which won multiple awards at the National Youth Jazz Festival, and which includes 'Best Combo Vocalist', Rose Elijas and 'Best Keyboardist' Max McCulloch.

Maddie says taking part in so many of Avcol's musical opportunities has played a large part in developing her voice.

"You kinda learn to bounce back quickly and regain your energy after each performance," Maddie explains. "I know how to prepare myself to give my very best."

Her love for music began early, and has been strengthened at Avcol. "Growing up, I'd listen to songs in the backseat of the car and sing along. My parents said, 'You should sing at our church.' So I did, and I loved it. Coming into high school, I was able to branch out and do Gospel Choir, Show and Band. Music at Avcol has been a very welcoming space - it's kept me going."

At Jazz and Soul, Maddie and the Gospel Choir will perform their set from The Big Sing, including a medley from the movie Tinā, arranged by alumnus Seumanu Simon Matafai. This medley saw the Gospel Choir come runners up in the Leo Pasifika award - for the 3rd time - for a commendable performance using Pacific languages: "it proves we've still got what it takes."

But that's not all—Maddie is also part of AD Soul, a contemporary group made up of Lora Praveen Gattu, Faletui Hall and Riannah Stanley-Tito. Their set will feature music by Bruno Mars, Lady Gaga, and Coco Jones, bringing a fresh, soulful vibe to the stage.

"Jazz is great, but soul has even more feeling to it," Maddie shares. "You want to move the audience and maybe even inspire them to search for the songs we've performed afterward."

Come and enjoy this musical experience - all welcome!

Time: Thursday 26 June 2025, 7:00 PM

Venue: Avondale College Performing Arts Centre

Entry: Gold coin donation