THE main problem with Grim Fawkner's debut on the Princess Theatre in Melbourne on Thursday was that it was over too quickly.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
"It was a really special night and better than I could have hoped for," Fawkner said.
Fawkner, real name Tane Emia-Moore, was voted Melbourne's best busker in a recent competition.
Part of his prize was a chance to open hit musical Once and perform with the cast. He also won a new Martin Road Series DRSGT guitar.
"The cast joined in on one of my original songs (The Hills and Home) and I got to sing The Leaving of Liverpool with them," Fawkner said.
"A lot of family and friends also made the trip to Melbourne as well. It was a really good time."
Fawkner said he realised how big the theatre was when he first stepped onto the stage for rehearsal last week.
"All of the cast of Once were really lovely people and avid musicians who just really like playing," he said.
"During one rehearsal the musical director put me on the spot to play one of my songs for the cast.
"I was a bit nervous to play for professional musicians but the told me they loved it and were trying to figure out how to play the song."
Fawkner said seeing familiar faces in the crowd on Thursday night made his performance a bit more natural.
"I'm used to performing in front of a room full of people so I didn't feel to bad," he said.
Fawkner will be recording a new EP next week before setting off on an east coast tour with UK singer-songwriter Hannah Ashcroft.
He also has shows booked in New Zealand before he heads to the UK in May.