William Barton and Veronique Serret

MARRAPURTANGKALI - The People's Spirit

Our Community is excited to announce that a new work, commissioned by Our Community, will be making its world premiere at Communities in Control 2023.

Inspired by the Uluru Statement from the Heart, MARRAPURTANGKALI channels through The People’s Spirit - a collective prayer of hope, affording all an opportunity to walk in two worlds toward a better future.

The piece has been co-created by proud Kalkadunga man William Barton; a multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, composer and QLD State Recipient 2023 Australian of the Year, alongside Australia’s most agile violinist Veronique Serret - a frequent collaborator with the likes of Bangarra Dance Theatre, Australian Chamber Orchestra and late Uncle Archie Roach.

The recorded sounds of William’s voice and yidaki underpin this contemplation in listening brought to life by co-creator Veronique Serret, joined by special guests, Founder of First Nations Woman in Music Victoria vocalist Maylene Yinnar, bassist for the late Uncle Archie Roach, Sam Anning, and curator Matt Hoy on cello.