

More than five decades after American Pie changed the landscape of popular music forever, legendary singer-songwriter Don McLean is returning to Australia this October — and Geelong audiences will now have the chance to experience this historic celebration live.
Don McLean has confirmed a special Geelong performance at the Geelong Arts Centre on Thursday 22 October, as part of his 55th Anniversary of American Pie Australian Tour.
Sat 10 Oct: Savannah in the Round Festival, Mareeba, FNQ
Mon 12 Oct: Fortitude Music Hall, Brisbane
Wed 14 Oct: The Star Theatre, Gold Coast
Sat 17 Oct: Coliseum Theatre, Western Sydney
Sun 18 Oct: WIN Entertainment Centre, Wollongong
Mon 19 Oct: State Theatre, Sydney
Wed 21 Oct: Palais Theatre, Melbourne with special guests 1927
Thu 22 Oct: Geelong Arts Centre, Geelong with special guests 1927
Fri 23 Oct: Thebarton Theatre, Adelaide
Keep connected to your live music scene here.
The Geelong show promises a rare opportunity to witness one of the world’s most celebrated songwriters in an intimate setting.
From the opening moments of American Pie through to classics including Vincent (Starry, Starry Night), Castles in the Air, And I Love You So and more, Don McLean’s live performances are a journey through songs that have become woven into the fabric of generations.
At 81, McLean remains a captivating performer, delivering the music that has defined more than five decades of songwriting with the warmth, clarity and unmistakable voice audiences have cherished around the world.
The milestone anniversary of American Pie follows another remarkable achievement, with the iconic song surpassing one billion streams on Spotify and continuing to inspire new generations. Its enduring legacy was also celebrated in the Paramount+ documentary The Day the Music Died: The Story of Don McLean’s American Pie.
Joining Don McLean for this very special Geelong event will be iconic Australian band 1927, bringing their timeless catalogue of ARIA Award-winning hits to the stage for an unforgettable night of music.
For more than three decades, 1927 have remained one of Australia’s most beloved bands, with songs including That’s When I Think of You, Compulsory Hero, To Love Me, Scars, Don’t Forget Me and the unforgettable If I Could becoming part of the soundtrack of Australian music history.
Also joining Don McLean across the tour will be Queensland singer-songwriter Gaudion. Hailing from Hillston in regional New South Wales, Gaudion’s performances combine heartfelt storytelling, warmth and authenticity, blending folk, country and pop influences inspired by artists including Tracy Chapman, Ed Sheeran and John Mayer.
The expansion of this tour is a huge win for Geelong audiences. Be prepared to be taken back to the stories of the songs with the one and only Don McLean.
Geelong presale happens from 10.00 am Tuesday 28 July to 6.00 pm Wednesday 29 July, with Geelong general on-sale at 9.00 am Thursday 30 July. All tickets available here.