Three Generations Three Songs - Palm Island

Since the first sunrise, the Manbarra people have been caretakers of Yunbinan (Yoon-bi-nun) and for more than a century, the patchworked paradise of Palm Island has been stitched together by the 40+ tribes who live there, now known as the Bwgcolman. The people are proud, spirited and – perhaps to outsiders – a little enigmatic.

‘Three Generations, Three Songs’ invites audiences to cross the saline waters of Halifax Bay and discover the stories, the strength and the deep love of place that lives in the hearts of the Manbarra and Bwgcolman. This richly emotive performance has been specially crafted for AFCM and features all original songs written by three generations of the same family.

Together, Gail Mabo, Normey Jay and Nashae share traditional stories and contemporary reflections through their own unique lenses, celebrate the Bwgcolman and Manbarra people and unpack the depth, beauty and truth of their island home.

Guided by Deline Briscoe, Gail, Normey and Nashae have explored their own lived experience, consulted with their elders and engaged with the Palm Island family to bring the Manbarra Bwgcolman stories to stage.

The performance will feature a collaboration between the Manbarra Bwgcolman Songwriters and AFCM musicians. This unifying experience is the first time for these Palm Island songwriters and will add even richer textures of sound to the stories.

Featuring:
Gail Mabo, Normey Jay, Nashae, Deline Briscoe, Airileke, Stephen Maxwell, Topology

Produced by:
Topology RASN North Queensland and Gaba Musik

The ‘Three Generations, Three Songs’ project is part of the Creative Heartlands Program, a Strategic Initiative of Topology | RASN North Queensland supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland.