SBS throws its arms around Pub Choir format for ‘Australia’s Biggest Singalong!’

The pub choir concept is moving to prime-time TV, courtesy SBS under the name Australia’s Biggest Singalong!

Hosted by actors Julia Zemiro and Miranda Tapsell, it will screen for two hours on Saturday June 5 at 8:30pm AEST.

Pub Choir co-founder and choirmaster Astrid Jorgensen is involved.

Pub Choir started out in Brisbane in 2017 with a simple concept: get a bunch of boozy strangers in a pub to learn to sing together in three-part harmonies along to familiar songs.

Last March when pubs closed, the concept became Couch Choir and asked strangers to send in videos for a virtual sing-along.

In July, 1,534 people from 40 countries braved The Killers’ ‘All These Things That I’ve Done’.

One of the songs being tried is ‘Throw Your Arms Around Me’ by Hunters and Collectors, and the band’s Mark Seymour will join the broadcast.

Viewers are asked to submit videos of themselves singing the song by May 17, to have a chance to have their version featured during the broadcast.

“Is there anything more joyful than hundreds of voices singing in harmony?” said Zemiro.

“It’s thrilling just thinking about it. I love singing in a choir, a group, with friends and strangers.

“We have created this event as a wonderful opportunity for all Australians.”

SBS sees a deeper impact. “SBS recognises the cultural significance singing has played over the course of time in strengthening identities, languages and bringing people together,” said its director of television and online content, Marshall Heald.

“Australia’s Biggest Singalong! connects Australians from all walks of life, amplifying diverse voices and unifying a diverse nation through song.”

Australia’s Biggest Singalong! is produced by Artemis Media for SBS.