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Photo - Lenny Bruce

Lenny Bruce’s visit to Sydney 1962 by Damian Kringas 2012

Eight days after his opening night, a hastily organised performance was staged at The Wintergarden, a run-down cinema at Rose Bay in Sydney’s eastern suburbs. It was Bruce’s only other Sydney show. With 200 in attendance, including a large police presence,

Bruce performed what was generally described a ‘subdued’ show. An audio recording of this performance was said to have been made, either by police or – a more likely source – local jazz fans. In 2011 a copy was uncovered and is now with Bruce’s estate.

For most of his stay in Sydney, Bruce attempted to keep a low profile, mainly venturing out at night from his hotel in Sydney’s well-known night-spot, Kings Cross. He did however attract attention from the Vice Squad, as it became apparent Bruce was supporting his well-documented drug habit. Befriending folk singer Tina Date, he was introduced to ‘Sydney Push’ doctor, Rocky Meyers, who obtained prescription drugs and negotiated on Bruce’s behalf.

While a combination of factors led to the controversy surrounding Bruce’s visit, the key element was with the man who brought Bruce to Australia, Lee Gordon. Lee Lazar Gordon is best remembered as the man who was going to bring Elvis Presley to Australia. Gordon, with his ‘Big Shows’, changed the way Australian audiences experienced live music.

Born in the United States and arriving in Sydney in 1953, Gordon applied his ‘think big’ style to many business start-ups, but had most luck with touring well-known overseas stars backed up with Australian talent. One local singer, Johnny O'Keefe, owed his career to Gordon and was so grateful he named his son after him.

Contributed by Greg Lynch -