On 16 January, one of our New South Wales State Representatives, Marie Chellos, performed in -barra, as part of the 2022 Sydney Festival. The work was a collaboration between Ensemble Offspring and acclaimed Yuwaalaraay musician and storyteller Nardi Simpson. “From Nhungga-barra dirt country to the flat plains of Mirriaa-barra, from the swamplands of Murrgu-barra to the riverlands of Garrii-barra, the artists have come together to create a sonic mapping of the land through the four distinct regions they call home.”
Here Marie reflects on her participation, and notes the importance of freedom and reconciliation promoted by Indigenous musicians:
“The deep aqua-green of the Green Room of City Recital Hall, in Angel place provided a sanctuary of calm contemplation before the excitement of the upcoming performance of Barra. Our choir has been diligently preparing over the covid period by both zoom meetings and in-person rehearsals at the Darlington Building, Sydney University.
The warm camaraderie of the choristers and the sterling leadership of Nardi Simpson and Kevin Hunt was a sure reinforcement that we were in good hands. Annie’s yoga-breathing prior to stepping on stage was a wonderful muscle-relaxant as well.
Once on stage, the energy flowed like a strong, purposeful river. The direction from Nardi, Kevin and Ensemble Offspring director Claire Edwardes was a sterling example of the cohesive unit of the extraordinary partnership. The inclusion of the First Nations song was a warm reinforcement – working closely together greatness shall prevail. I was in absolute awe of the alchemy created by all the significant elements of this project. Gazing into the audience, reinforced the splendour and remarkable achievement of the efforts of Barrayagal Choir.”
You can access the performance program on the Sydney Festival website.
