Celebrity tributes flood in for ‘sublimely talented’ Melbourne musician after his untimely death
Australian musician James Simpson, who collaborated on high-profile productions such as Chicago and The Lion King, has died.
And tributes to the ‘sublimely talented’ music director poured in following news of his tragic death.
The Melbourne Theater Company shared the news of James’ death on its official Facebook page on Saturday.
James had worked with the company on a production of My Brilliant Career.
In a heartfelt tribute, the company described James as a ‘creative force’.
“Melbourne Theater Company acknowledges the passing of James Simpson, the orchestrator/vocal arranger of My Brilliant Career, currently playing at the Southbank Theatre,” the message read.
Tributes have poured in for Australian musician James Simpson (pictured), who worked on high-profile productions including Chicago and The Lion King, as news of his death emerged on Saturday.
‘James was also the musical director and orchestrator of Melbourne Theater Company’s 2017 production of Vivid White.
The message continued: “We are deeply saddened by the loss of this creative force and extend our condolences to James’ family, friends and those who had the pleasure of working with him at Melbourne Theater Company and across the industry.”
The news was met with many reactions, with many expressing their sincere condolences.
“Omg that is so devastating – so talented,” one follower wrote, while another added: “This is terrible news. I can’t believe it. Sincere condolences to James’ many loved ones.’
James’ partner Mitch Roberts also shared the devastating news on Instagram, writing: “My beautiful husband, I will love you always and forever.”
Mitch’s message was met with an outpouring of condolences from friends and followers, including Australian Idol star Casey Donovan.
“Mitch, I am so sorry,” Casey wrote.
“James was a remarkable, talented, humble, passionate, kind soul. I will carry him with me and his love for music will live on in all of us. Absolutely heartbroken for all of you.”
James’ partner Mitch Roberts also shared the devastating news on Instagram with: “My beautiful husband, I will love you always and forever.”
Mitch’s post was met with an outpouring of condolences from friends and followers, including Australian Idol star Casey Donovan who wrote: ‘Mitch, I’m so sorry.’
“Not only were you so sublimely talented musically, you were also such an amazing, kind, generous soul… not to mention those glorious, mesmerizing eyes of yours – the most beautiful I have ever known,” wrote entertainment veteran Rhonda Birchmore (photo)
Rhonda’s heartfelt words were also met with a new wave of condolences from friends and fans, including actress Rebecca Gibney (pictured), who offered: ‘I’m sorry for your loss, sweetheart. Sending love’
Former Bachelor star Georgia Love also expressed her condolences, writing, “Oh, Mitch, I’m so, so sorry.”
Australian entertainment veteran Rhonda Burchmore, a frequent collaborator with James, also took to Instagram to share her own sweet tribute.
“I am heartbroken to hear of the passing of my dear friend and brilliant music director, pianist and arranger James Simpson,” Rhonda shared.
The singer praised her friend as a “kind and generous soul.”
“Not only were you so sublimely talented musically, you were also such a beautiful, kind, generous soul… not to mention those glorious, enchanting eyes of yours – the most beautiful I have ever known.”
The post continued: “Rest in peace my beautiful James. You will be dearly missed by all who knew you.”
Rhonda’s heartfelt words were also met with a new wave of condolences from friends and fans, including actress Rebecca Gibney.
“I’m sorry for your loss sweetheart. Sending love,” Rebecca wrote.
ABC star Myf Warhurst also offered: “I’m so sorry, Rhonda.”
James had worked both here in Australia and internationally as a musical director, arranger and orchestrator.
His credits include the Australian tours of Chicago, 9 to 5, Moulin Rouge, Disney’s Aladdin and Disney’s The Lion King.