Glen Innes-born singer and storyteller Darren Coggan is set to return to his hometown with a performance honouring one of music’s most enduring figures, Cat Stevens. The event will take place on Sunday, 19 January, at 2:30 pm at The Glen Innes Chapel Theatre.
In his latest production, Remember the Days of Cat Stevens, Darren revisits the music and legacy of the iconic artist, whose work captured the spirit of a turbulent era. Amidst the fear of nuclear war, the Vietnam War, civil rights unrest, intergenerational conflict, and the outrage over burned bras, perceived immorality, and drug use, Cat Stevens emerged on the 1960s and ’70s pop scene with anthems of peace and love. His music captured the underlying fear and hope within the youth counterculture during the precarious peace of the Cold War. Set to calming melodies—in stark contrast to the anger of the Rolling Stones—Stevens’ songs felt less confrontational. Instead, they championed love for one’s neighbour, harmony, and anti-materialism. Beyond politics, Stevens simply wrote great songs!
The performance will feature many of Stevens’ most recognisable songs, including Moonshadow, Wild World, Morning Has Broken, and Father and Son. Reflecting on the enduring appeal of Stevens’ music, Darren describes it as having “an ethereal quality” that weaves themes of peace, introspection, and spiritual exploration.
Speaking about his inspiration for the show, Darren said, “I was inspired by his story and his incredible catalogue of timeless songs, and I felt it would also inspire others.” Reflecting on his 2007 meeting with Stevens, he added, “Perhaps the greatest thing I took home from my meeting with Cat Stevens was the realisation that we all have the ability to make changes in our lives, should we not be content with who we are or where we are.”
Darren is well-known to local audiences, having performed at the Australian Celtic Festival and hosted the Australian Celtic Music Awards in Glen Innes. His return marks another chapter in his career, which has spanned diverse roles, from winning the Toyota Star Maker award in 1996 to hosting Sydney Weekender.
Remember the Days of Cat Stevens offers an opportunity to reflect on the music and messages of an artist whose work continues to resonate. For Darren, this show is both a tribute and a personal expression, blending his skills as a performer with his deep connection to the themes of Stevens’ songs.
Darren will take the stage at The Glen Innes Chapel Theatre on Sunday, 19 January, at 2:30 pm. It promises to be a meaningful event, bringing music, storytelling, and community together in the heart of Glen Innes.
