NOTE: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are warned that the following article contains images of deceased persons.
A special concert celebrating the enormous legacy of Gunditjamara (Kirrae Whurrong/Djab Wurrung), Bundjalung Senior Elder, song man and storyteller, Archie Roach AC AM, will bring First Nations voices to the Hamer Hall stage for two nights this July.
Melbourne Symphony Orchestra is co-presenting One Song: The Music of Archie Roach as part of their 2023 NAIDOC Week program on Wednesday, July 5 and Thursday, July 6.
You won’t want to miss hearing Uncle Archie’s seminal songs such as ‘Weeping in the Forest’, ‘Jamu Dreaming’ and ‘Took the Children Away’ performed with the full backing of the MSO. One Song will be an evening of sublime storytelling, bringing together an acclaimed line-up of artists, each drawing on their connection to the Australian icon.
The line-up features esteemed didgeridoo player and composer William Barton, Tiddas legend Sally Dastey and lauded singer-songwriters Emma Donovan and Jess Hitchcock, just to name a few. Talented soul singer-songwriter and guitarist Dan Sultan will also be making his MSO debut.
Archie Roach Foundation Award winner Kee’ahn, rapper and spoken word artist Radical Son and actress Tamala Shelton will all also make their MSO debuts and the Dhungala Children’s Choir will also take the stage in a tribute to Uncle Archie.
MSO Chief Conductor Jaime Martín will take the baton and Rachael Maza AM, artistic director of ILBIJERRI Theatre Company will stage direct this live concert. Musical direction will be by Archie’s longtime collaborator Paul Grabowsky AO.
