Normally based in Nashville, Anthony is visiting local schools this week to deliver performance and singing workshops in the lead-up to the shows at the Gunnedah Town Hall on Friday and Saturday.

The show brings together performers from across the Gunnedah community, including students from Gunnedah Conservatorium, Totally Dance Studios (TDS) and Rhana’s Academy of Dance (RAD). 

Mr Snape’s former school mate Cassie Carblis (nee Berry) will also perform, along with local band Streamline.

“I love working with students,” Anthony said.

“I love how excitable they are. I love the energy they bring… It reminds me of that nervous energy I used to have when I performed.

“I enjoy that energy of people getting together to create something.”

Anthony attended Gunnedah South Public School and Gunnedah High School, and has a lot of family in Gunnedah still.

“I love coming home,” he said.

“It’s one of those things that I think, where you grow up, always remains a part of you. It doesn’t matter how far away you go, you take it everywhere.

“I really feel that Gunnedah is a huge part of who I am and the way that I present myself in lots of different places around the world, so it’s wonderful to be back again and experience it again.”

The musician has brought DVD’s with him of Tommy Emmanuel and Friends which are available for purchase at BTS Blinds and Awnings and Just Country this week. Tommy is another former Gunnedah musician who is famous for his guitar skills. Also available for purchase will be Anthony’s latest album, Straight Lines, which will not be officially released until next year.

Anthony has written an original song for the Remembrance Day production titled Waking Up Without You. TDS choreographer Crystal Faulkner will dance as Anthony performs the song.

"Songs in wartime reflect attitudes about Australia's participation in conflict and war," Conservatorium director Rebecca Ryan said.

"We are covering 100 years - it is quite broad - so in the show we've interwoven some of those more well known songs from First World War with modern songs which tell the story of war, like 'And the Band Played Waltzing Matilda' and 'I was Only 19'.

“It makes for a powerful show.”

The show has been scheduled to coincide with Remembrance Day and is part of the efforts of Gunnedah Shire Council's ANZAC Working Group to acknowledge the 100 Years of ANZAC, 2014-2018. It is funded through the Australian Government ANZAC Centenary Arts and Culture Fund.

There will be a free matinee for schools on Friday at 10am, and a 7pm performance in cabaret style which will incorporate a three-course meal. There will also be a matinee performance on Saturday at 2pm. 

Tickets are $55 for the three-course dinner and show on Friday, and $15 for the matinee on Saturday. 

For tickets, visit www.thecivic.com.au or phone 6740 2230.