QPAC

We pay our respects to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ancestors of this land, their spirits and their legacy. The foundations laid by these ancestors give strength, inspiration and courage to current and future generations, both First Nations and non-First Nations peoples, towards creating a better Queensland.

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$49.95 - $59.95 *

* A transaction fee of $7.50 applies.

1 hour 15 minutes

no interval, subject to change without notice

Barragga Yangga, meaning ‘Many Songs’ in traditional Dhurga language, is a moving celebration of First Nations language, story and song.

Created under the artistic direction of Cheryl Overton (née Davison), this extraordinary performance brings together intergenerational Yuin choir Djinama Yilaga, with music collaborators Heath Cullen, Fred Leone, Stu Hunter and David Hewitt.

The audience will be immersed in classical music and new songs in traditional Dhurga language, accompanied by a string quartet from Camerata – Queensland’s Chamber Orchestra.

This new collection of songs is the culmination of three years of creative development by Djinama Yilaga, Four Winds and the Bundanon Trust. Written by the members of Djinama Yilaga, these songs weave together ancient Yuin stories with deeply personal reflections on family and connection to Country. One song tells of ancestor Bundoola – the lightning and thunder spirit – and his 13 wives from the groups that form the Yuin nation.

Another, “Wandung Bawarr Njiinj”, recounts how whales arrive when the wattle blooms, signalling a journey to higher country. “Yaway”, meaning ‘come and sit down’, threads through the performance, inviting people together while acknowledging the need to keep gathering, retelling stories, and healing from the devastating disruptions of colonisation. Other songs are about growing up on Wallaga Lake Mission, and honour Uncle Jimmy Little. The collection closes with “We Have Tomorrow and She Looks Good”.

“We have some beautiful stories and songs in this show, all in language … from our past, through these songs, we carry the flames, not the ashes.” Cheryl Overton (née Davison)

Barragga Yangga is part of Clancestry. Find out more about Clancestry.

About Camerata

Camerata – Queensland’s Chamber Orchestra has been performing at QPAC for over10 years and is a two-time Helpmann Award nominated chamber orchestra and known for their innovative and adventurous programming, thriving on collaborations with artists across a range of artforms. Performing without a conductor, Camerata’s Artistic Associates and guest artists take ownership of their music-making to form a refreshing and acclaimed voice that empowers artists, inspires audiences, and enriches communities through music.