Some of the nation’s finest Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander entertainers are bringing their comedy, poetry, music and dance to Greater Geelong. Blak Cabaret artists will perform at the Potato Shed, Drysdale, at 4 pm on June 29. The experienced performers have been selected not only for their talent, but also their commitment in shaping Australia’s cultural identity.
Malthouse Theatre engagement officer and Blak Cabaret producer Jason Tamiru describes the show as funny, moving, heart-warming and very entertaining.
“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people come from an oral history and Blak Cabaret plays to that strength,” Mr Tamiru said. “Blak Cabaret’s established performers have been entertaining audiences for more than 30 years, creating contemporary songlines throughout the country. Our emerging performers are continuing the story, forging their own footprints.”
The line-up for the Potato Shed performance includes legendary singer-songwriter Kutcha Edwards, who has performed at most major music festivals with both his own band and the renowned Black Arm Band, using music as a medium to tell the stories of today, and yesterday.
The show will be emceed by actor and director Kylie Belling, whose extensive work across theatre, film and television includes feature film The Sapphires (2012) and television series Redfern Now (2013).
Australia’s own busking Black Elvis (Gnarnayarrahe Waitairie) will perform, along with gum-leaf player Uncle Herb Patten, country-pop singer Illana Atkinson, band man Peter Rotumah, contemporary musician Joe Geia, former So You Think You Can Dance hip hop dancer Nikki Ashby, joyfully ridiculous comedian Kevin Kropinyeri, poet Dennis Fisher (Den the Fish) and actor Ian Michael.
VicHealth CEO Jerril Rechter said Blak Cabaret, which is funded under VicHealth’s Arts About Us program, takes audiences on a heart-warming journey into our nation’s soul. “Since its debut in 2012, Blak Cabaret has toured Victoria to entertain and move audiences in regional areas. It’s fantastic to see it on the road once more for this special performance in Drysdale.
“Blak Cabaret is more than top class entertainment from Australia’s finest Aboriginal performers. It’s a funny and moving commentary about where we come from, who we are, and most importantly, a celebration of the richness and diversity of all Victorians.”
When&Where: Potato Shed, Drysdale – June 29