Amelie Peters is a classically trained vocalist and cabaret artist. A graduate of the Elder Conservatorium of Music Adelaide, she has performed with the State Opera of South Australia and toured internationally, including being invited to perform at New York’s Soho Playhouse. Amelie’s versatile music background, performance experience and international networks makes her one of the most sought out music industry professionals in Adelaide. She brings her interactive musical cabaret, ‘Sink or SING!‘ to the Fringe in August.
We spoke to Amelie about the show, leaning into her abilities as a vocal coach, and almost literally ‘breaking her ass’ at last year’s Fringe.
Can you tell us about ‘Sink or SING!’?
‘Sink or SING!’ is a high, main character-energy, interactive 60-minute cabaret show where I guide the audience through catchy original songs I’ve written, teaching them the hooks and some playful vocal warm-ups along the way. Imagine sparkles, giggles, and a crowd full of pleasantly surprised singers (even the boys get into it!). It’s part singing lesson, part concert, and part joy-fuelled chaos – perfect for anyone who loves to sing, no matter their experience!
You’re a vocal coach as well as a classically-trained singer. Was this a factor in making ‘Sing or SING’ an interactive show? Are you a believer that anyone can sing given the right training?
I mean, what’s the point of being a vocal coach and a classically-trained singer if you can’t use your powers for a bit of cheeky mischief? ‘Sink or SING!’ was always going to be interactive – I wanted to take the magic that happens in a one-on-one singing lesson and blow it up onstage with sequins and sassy original songs. And yes, I 1000% believe anyone can sing! Your voice is a muscle that requires consistent training to increase agility and stamina. This show is my playful way of sneaking the joy of singing back into the busy lives of grown-ups.
How do you integrate the interactive element into the show?
I sneak it in before anyone has time to get nervous! From the moment the show starts, the audience is part of the action – I teach them simple vocal warm-ups, break down catchy hooks from my original songs, and before they know it, they’re basically the stars of the show. It’s all crafted to feel fun and easygoing, but underneath the sparkles is some sneaky solid vocal technique. Think of it like a secret singing masterclass wrapped in sequins and sass – you’ll be laughing one minute, belting the next, and finding yourself singing the songs at work for a month!
You seem to have an equal love of both opera, and cabaret and musical theatre. Do you see yourself as attempting to bridge the perceived class or prestige divide between the forms?
Good question! As I always say to my artists, you have to learn the rules in order to bend them. I’ve got a deep respect for the discipline and tradition of opera, but I’m equally obsessed with the raw honesty and playfulness of cabaret and musical theatre. I don’t see them as being in competition, I see them as different ways of telling a story with your voice. I love blurring the lines between music styles, and ‘Sink or SING!’ is definitely my way of shaking off the idea that some genres are ‘fancier’ than others. Whether it’s Mozart, Wicked, or Taylor Swift, if it’s sung with intention and heart, it deserves to be celebrated.
In all your years as a singer, coach, and director, is there an achievement of which you are most proud?
Honestly, the thing I’m most proud of isn’t a personal achievement – it’s watching the artists I’ve worked with grow, take risks, and go after their dreams. Seeing someone step into their power, find their voice (literally and figuratively), and do something they once thought was impossible? THAT’S the real reward. Nothing beats witnessing that kind of transformation, it’s magic and brings a lot of joy into my life. I’m so grateful to have found a great purpose, so young in my career.
This is your debut Fringe show. Is there anything you’re particularly looking forward to (or dreading!) about the Fringe?
I am so excited!! Performing at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe has been a dream of mine for years, and I still can’t believe it’s finally happening. I can’t wait to lose myself in the cobblestone streets, network into the crazy early hours, and bring all those unforgettable memories back home to Australia.
Full disclosure: I was at the Fringe as an audience member in 2024 and had a pretty epic tumble down some steps right before catching Mel and Sam’s show ‘High Pony’ (shoutout to my fellow Aussie artists!) The fall was so brutal, I genuinely thought I’d broken my ass – emotionally and physically, it was a disaster. I ended up with a massive bruise and lump that took a whole year to heal (I’ve got pics). Now, I’m borderline paranoid about falling again – this time, hoping not to actually break anything!
Beside ‘Sink or SING’, can we expect to see you performing elsewhere during August?
Oh, there might be a few things happening in August… some secret shows, unexpected collaborations, and moments that’ll keep you guessing. I’m not spilling all the details just yet, but let’s just say it’s going to be a month full of surprises – and I can’t wait to see who’s paying attention!
Are there any other acts at the Fringe that you would recommend audiences see?
There’s no shortage of incredible talent at the Fringe, but I’ll always cheer the loudest for fierce, female-led Aussie cabaret — bold voices, big hearts, and a whole lot of sparkles! Super special shout out to the fellow Interactive Theatre International artists too!
‘Signor Baffo‘ (for the kids!)
Jessica Bigg and Eliza Dickson – ‘Late to the Party: The ADHD Hour‘
Mel and Sam – ‘The Platonic Human Centipede‘
Michelle Brasier – ‘It’s a Shame We Won’t Be Friends Next Year‘
Michelle Pearson – ‘Skinny‘ & ‘Down Under’
Tash York – ‘Swamplesque‘
‘Sink or SING!‘ is at Bothie at Gilded Balloon’s Patter House at Wed 30 Jul to Sun 24 Aug 2025 at 21:20
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