HEAVEN AND EARTH

SPIRITUAL BELIEFS HAVE inspired artists of all kinds throughout the ages. In what is set to be a richly immersive aural experience, Darwin Symphony Orchestra (DSO) presents two profound musical expressions of spirituality – ‘Wayul’s Journey’, a collaboration between Rirratjingu Songman Banula Marika and DSO Composer in Residence Netanela Mizrahi, and Gustav Mahler’s transcendent Symphony No. 4.

WORDS RITA HORANYI

Telling the story of a significant ancestral being’s odyssey across North East Arnhem Land to find guku (wild honey), the world premiere of ‘Wayul’s Journey’ brings to life an ancient Yolŋu songline.

In this multifaceted performance featuring dance and yidaki (didgeridoo), Mizrahi’s subtle orchestration complements Marika’s soaring voice as he takes audiences on a spiritual journey through Country and creation.

Performing as Wuyal, Marika sings how this ancient ancestral being named and created significant landmarks and creatures, including Bakarra, the long-necked freshwater turtle who belongs to the Dhalwangu clan.

“To be trusted with sacred aspects of Banula’s culture is an enormous privilege,” says Mizrahi.

“Musically, spiritually, and in every way, these songlines are complex and complete on their own. So, my most important task as a composer in this collaboration is to listen. An orchestra is a big, loud, impressive being for telling story, but these songlines ... really require the orchestra to be at [their] service ... to create space and support the spirit of the story, without taking anything away.”

For Marika, sharing his story with audiences at Darwin Festival is an exciting opportunity.

“Sharing my Yolŋu manikay (songs) with the Darwin Orchestra and the audience – they want to see [something] different ... Some people don’t know about Yolŋu working with the Darwin Orchestra.”

Following this unforgettable journey, audiences are transported to a child’s enchantingly innocent view of the world in Mahler’s fourth symphony. This symphonic work culminates with an angelic performance by acclaimed soprano Jessica Blunt that gives voice to a child’s vision of heavenly bliss.

“For most orchestral musicians... the Mahler is the Shakespeare ... the essence of why we do it, and I think it’s because it gets so close to those pretty special places,” says DSO’s Artistic Director and Chief Conductor Jon Tooby.

Head along and experience this evening of glorious soundscapes that transports you to these special, spiritual places.

Heaven and Earth
WHEN SAT 23 AUG | 7.30PM
AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE
COST $22-$65 | $152 FAM
INFO yourcentre.com.au

_{Image: Kate Stephens}