KARI Foundation hosted young people from regional NSW from the 13th January – 17th January 2020. As a part of KARI Foundation’s Creative and Performing Arts pillar, these young people were selected from vocal workshops that were held in Dubbo in November 2019.
Due to their talent and outstanding display of character during the workshops, the group of young women were given the opportunity to travel to Sydney for a week filled with culture, vocal workshops and a special performance with the KARI Singers.
Throughout the week the group learned songs such as ‘I Am Australian’ in Dharawl language, as well as the National Anthem in Eora Sydney local language. A guest choreographer attended one of the workshops to teach the group a dance piece to accompany their performance of ‘I Am Australian’.
Not only was the week about furthering their skills as performers, it was also a chance to provide them with cultural workshops, where they were educated on traditional customs of their culture. Leanne Hudson from KARI Limited’s Cultural Unit provided a weaving workshop, where they made bracelets from raffia. This workshop was a great way to include culture during their stay, and also provided them with a souvenir to remember this experience.
“We’re really focusing on culture and the importance of culture. I think it’s important for our kids to be proud of who they are and where they come from and who they represent in their mob and their family” – Blake Ralph, KARI Singers Coordinator
After a week of rehearsing and perfecting their performance, they were able to put their newfound skills to the test, by performing at Corporate Club Australia’s Australia Day Lunch, held on Friday 17th of January at Sydney’s International Convention Centre. The performance captivated the audience with their inspiring rendition of both pieces.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank Raymond Ingrey, Chairman of the Gujaga Foundation for translating the lyrics to ‘I Am Australian’ and his contribution to the success of this program.
“It’s workshops and experiences like these that shape kids and who they are. Not enough kids know their culture and I think it’s very very important and it’s a part of who we are.” – Sarah, Regional Vocalist
To round off Australia Day festivities, the KARI Singers performed at the Annual Australia Day Concert for 2020. Alongside Australian music identities including Vanessa Amorosi, John Williamson, The Original Seekers, Isaiah Firebrace, Eskimo Joe and many more.
The concert was held at the iconic Sydney Opera House in front of an excited and energetic crowd of Australia Day revellers. A performance of the National Anthem in Eora Sydney local language and Djapana ensured they proudly represented their culture.
If you are interested in hiring the KARI Singers for your corporate function or event, contact Blake Ralph at singers@kari.org.au
To view images from the festivities, see below:
