THE "James Dean of jazz" will come to life again when David Goldthorpe brings his talents to Newcastle this month, performing in tribute to Chet Baker.
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Baker was well-known for his extraordinary talent with the trumpet and captivating vocal style - as well as his heroin addiction.
The Chet Baker: Like Someone in Love show explores the unforgettable music that made Baker famous and the self-destructive behaviour that made him infamous.
Accompanied by a live trio of jazz musicians including James Illingworth on keys, Mostyn Cole on bass and Richard Wise on drums, Goldthorpe delivers a "dark and intriguing" cabaret performance, showing at Civic Theatre's Playhouse.
Authenticity was key when Goldthorpe developed the Baker story.
Goldthorpe said it was important that his portrayal of the darker side of Baker's life be genuine and hold up to scrutiny should a heroin user see the production.
"Each time I perform the show in a new city, I visit the local needle exchange to get some new props and meet some of the locals, who always have an interesting tale or two," he said.
But it is not all doom and gloom, Goldthorpe said.
"There is the story of the famous audition with Charlie Parker, talk of Chet's rise to fame and his first love, but I also explore the darker side that was present throughout his career.
"I want audiences to have a chance to meet the real Chet Baker."
The Examiner has one double pass to give away to Chet Baker: Like Someone in Love, starting at 8pm on Friday, August 9.
To win, send your name and contact details on an envelope to our Nelson Bay office or in an email titled "Chet" to ewatts@fairfaxmedia.com.au.
The winner will be notified by 5pm on Thursday, August 8.
