The Madeleines deliver an unforgettable performance at the TSB Showplace in New Plymouth on Sunday, 15 June 2025, as part of the Right Royal Cabaret Festival. From the moment they take the stage, their blend of glamour, glitz, and soulful melodies captivates the audience.

The trio — Hannah Heka-Kee, Jessica Rogers and Jemma Goeldner — bring vintage charm, grace and sparkle to the stage in spades. Dressed for their opening number in midnight blue sequins that shimmer under the lights, they exude elegance and charisma from the get-go. Their presence is magnetic, but it is their soaring voices and sublime harmonies that truly mesmerise.

Formed in 2017, The Madeleines have built a reputation as one of New Zealand’s most polished and sophisticated vocal trios. With backgrounds in jazz, musical theatre and classical training, they’ve performed everywhere from intimate jazz clubs to large-scale festivals, always delivering a polished, nostalgic experience infused with a modern sensibility. Their dedication to their craft and their passion for reviving the glamour of a bygone musical era have earned them accolades across the country.

Their set at the festival is a joyful journey through musical history. They move effortlessly from the swing of ‘Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy’ and ‘In the Mood’ — a sparkling homage to the Andrews Sisters — to the sultry elegance of ‘Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend’. The tempo and mood shifts again with the cheeky sass of Christina Aguilera’s ‘Candyman’ and the powerhouse vocals of ‘Lady Marmalade’, before culminating in a toe-tapping rock ’n’ roll finale and a rousing version of Sinatra’s ‘That’s Life’ that has the audience clapping, tapping, and cheering along.

What truly sets The Madeleines apart is the synergy between Heka-Kee, Rogers and Goeldner. Their voices intertwine in heavenly three-part harmony, their choreography is slick and playful, and their on-stage chemistry radiates joy and professionalism. Each singer brings her own unique flair, yet they perform with the precision and unity of a group deeply in tune with one another.

The venue itself — the TSB Showplace — is the perfect setting, combining an intimate atmosphere with grand, old-world charm. The acoustics are flawless, and the lighting design makes every sparkle on stage shine just that bit brighter.

For me, the evening is made even more special as I have the joy of bringing my 92-year-old mum along. The Madeleines offer her a walk down memory lane — not just nostalgic, but elevated: classy, sophisticated and beautifully performed. Watching her smile and tap along to the songs of her youth, presented with such flair and reverence, is a truly touching experience I will never forget.

In short, The Madeleines’ performance is a standout highlight of the Right Royal Cabaret Festival. With timeless tunes, stunning harmonies and show-stopping style, Hannah Heka-Kee, Jessica Rogers, and Jemma Goeldner reaffirm their status as one of New Zealand’s premier cabaret acts.

An utter delight — both musically and emotionally.

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