Townsville is set to host genre-bending US singer Jelly Roll for his largest Australian stadium show tonight, with the city embracing the artist through street art, themed baked goods, and even tattoos.
Artists Lavinia Letheby and Amanda Sadler spent three nights from Halloween creating a mural in honor of Jelly Roll, following a similar tribute for pop singer P!nk earlier this year. “We’re super excited to welcome him here to Townsville,” Ms Letheby said.
Local businesses are capitalizing on the excitement, with bakeries offering jelly rolls and other themed sweets. Tattoo artist Alex Aguilera has designed a series of Jelly Roll-inspired tattoos, having already inked at least 50 fans. “It is cool to see people excited here — the excitement is contagious,” she said.
Stadium venue manager Cameron Jones confirmed the Thursday night concert, which also features country artists including Shaboozey, is Jelly Roll’s largest headline stadium show in Australia. “Tickets sales are strong and we’re trending towards at least 20,000 [people],” Mr Jones said.
The event features a 48-metre top secret stage and extensive venue dressing. Organizers urge concertgoers to stay hydrated amid expected 33-degree heat in Townsville on Thursday.
