VITAL FORCES: A MUSICAL TRIBUTE TO RESILIENCE

Join Larrakia Senior Elder Dr Aunty Bilawara Lee (Aunty B) and NT Composer Netanela Mizrahi for an unforgettable evening commemorating the 50th anniversary of Cyclone Tracy, a pivotal event that forever altered the landscape and spirit of Darwin.

^{By Brooke Gibbs}

THEIR COLLABORATIVE MASTERPIECE, Vital Forces, promises a fresh perspective, enriched by Aunty B’s profound wisdom and first-hand experience of this transformative historical moment.

Darwin Symphony Orchestra (DSO) General Manager Kate Stephens says that using music to commemorate the anniversary of the natural disaster is an important recognition for survivors, how their lives were forever changed, and to remember those who lost their lives. For others, it is also a reminder of our unique history and geography, and a chance to better understand how Darwin was shaped by those events.

“Music has the ability to reach us and affect us in ways that are difficult to explain,” she says.

“A musical response, or any creative response, to events that have been significant, traumatic or life-changing can connect us on a deeper level. Every listener will experience this differently, and we hope it allows people to have their own response, unique to them and their lived experience.”

Vital Forces promises an immersive musical experience that transcends time and place. This event not only showcases exceptional artistic talent but also underscores Darwin’s rich cultural heritage and resilience.

Stephens says DSO is honoured that Aunty B offered her story of surviving Cyclone Tracy for this work.

“Her account is honest and raw, at times a practical account of cyclone preparedness, but overall carries a broader cultural and spiritual dimension that is very moving,” she says.

“Aunty B urges us to listen to Larrakia people, respect and listen to the land, and heed warnings that are sent our way. This is a very powerful message that comes through her story.”

Stephens says that Gurrulwa Guligi is the first piece Composer in Residence Netanela has composed for DSO in this role.

“She has so sensitively responded to Aunty B’s story in her orchestral writing, and the result from the collaboration is a beautiful work that I can’t wait to share with our audience.”

Stephens says this program will include two other amazing works by contemporary Australian composers – Through Changing Landscape by Alice Chance, and Signal Lost by James Ledger, both NT premieres.

“I hope audience members have an appreciation of the incredible talent of our home-grown composers in listening to these beautiful works. Prokofiev’s 5th Symphony is the final piece on our program – a thrilling, dark, and beautiful storm that I hope will immerse and draw our audience in.”

Gain insights into the creative journey and deepen your appreciation for the intersection of culture, history, and music in this special commemorative event.

Darwin Symphony Orchestra: Vital Forces
WHEN SAT 17 AUG | 7.30PM
AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE
COST $22-$65
INFO darwinfestival.org.au | dso.org.au

_{Photo: Duane Preston}