Be swept away by the sounds and traditions of the Yuin Nation through this fabulous and immersive lyrical storytelling experience. ABC Classic Kids Music for the Dreaming sees ABC Bushwacked’s Kamil Ellis together with the talented musicians of Ensemble Offspring deliver a classical sensory journey within the intimate venue of the Utzon Room at the Sydney Opera House.
Designed for children aged 2-5 years, the carpet seating creates a relaxed setting where youngsters are free to enjoy the performance. Ellis recalls the songs of Aunty Brenda and the tales of Budawang Elder Uncle Noel, translating them into an animated routine. Inviting the assembled children to join him in echoing the sounds of the cicadas, to delight in the beauty of a full moon and to practice the giving nature of the Lyre Birds; the interactive element of this wonderful production is undoubtedly what makes it so entertaining.
Feeling as though we were privy to the stories being told around the campfire, together with Ellis and the expressive musical quartet, we observed the changing of the seasons and the natural surrounds of the NSW South Coast through fascinating Indigenous compositions and dramatic narration.
Drawing the performance to a close, Ellis invites the audience to remain for a special opportunity to experience the instruments up close as the musicians step down from the stage. My 11mo was absolutely awestruck with the clarinet and my 3yo equally so with the violin, which he deemed his favourite instrument from the performance.
Music for the Dreaming presents a beautiful and unique opportunity to engage the under-5 set in honing their musical literacy and education.
Further extend their musical appreciation after the performance with the Music for the Dreaming podcast series on the ABC KIDS listen app.
Presented by Sydney Opera House, ABC KIDS listen and ABC Classic FM in collaboration with Ensemble Offspring and composer Brenda Gifford of the 2017 Indigenous Composers Initiative.
What you need to know:
What: ABC Classic Kids: Music for the Dreaming
When: 17-31 August
Time: Daily performances at 10am and 11.30am
Who: 2-5 years
Cost: $25 per person ($8.50 booking fee)
Duration: 35 minutes (no interval) *allow a few extra minutes at the end to spend time meeting the musicians and their instruments
Kids Lunch Pack Option: Select the Kids Lunch Pack when booking your tickets – each pack contains a wrap, donut, piece of fruit and juice box or water.
Accessible Performances (to accommodate people of all ages and abilities)
Relaxed Performances: Saturday 25 August at 10am
Sing & Play Performances: Friday 24 August at 10am – the performance is followed directly by a 45 minute Sing & Play music therapy session