CELESTIAL EMU - 25 June
Celestial Emu is a multimedia symphony, combining Australian indigenous songs, story-telling and dance, orchestra, choir and scientific presentation. The work is based on the observations of the annual cycle of the Celestial Emu (the dark spaces in the Milky Way) and how it has encouraged the songs, traditions and dances of nations who have lived on this continent for generations.
Our galaxy, the Milky Way, holds a significant place in the traditions of First Nations cultures across Australia – particularly the Kamilaroi and Euahlayi peoples in northern and north-western New South Wales.
Symphony Central Coast Artistic Director and Conductor Steven Stanke worked closely with Kamilaroi and Euahlayi lawman Michael ‘Ghillar’ Anderson to create a respectful and moving orchestral and choral tribute to the sky knowledge that is the Celestial Emu and how it relates to the life cycle of the Emu on earth. Found in the dark spaces in the Milky Way, the Celestial Emu changes position in the early evening sky, depending on the season, as the Earth rotates around the Sun. As the Emu changes position, it alters in appearance, which connects to earthly culture and resources – emu mating, availability of eggs, maturation of the young and the summer dry. This world premiere will be performed by an orchestra, women’s choir and girls’ choir, and narrator.
Also on the program is Eleanor Gilbert’s ground-breaking film Star Stories of the Dreaming, an extended interview with ‘Ghillar’ where he tells, in detail, the story and meaning of the Emu in the Sky.
Tickets:
- Adults: $45
- Concession: $40 (Seniors and Pensioners)
- Children under 18: $20
All ticket purchases must be completed online prior to the event, no Box Office sales will be available at the venue on event day.