The evening sky becomes a living canvas in the visually stunning Australian premiere of ‘Sky Song’.
Presented by Gluttony and Adelaide Fringe and set among the rolling hills and sprawling vineyards of the McLaren Vale wine region; ‘Sky Song’ is an ambitious collaboration between drone art company Celestial and First Nations artists.
Narrated by celebrated performer and campaigner Archie Roach and unfolding across five chapters, ‘Sky Song’ explores the sacred connection between Australia’s First Nations people and the land and the events that have shaped our country. Featuring work from artists including Jack Buckskin of Kuma Kaaru, Ali Cobby Eckermann and Dusty Feet Mob, ‘Sky Song’ masterfully combines dream time stories, poetry and spoken word with traditional music and dance to explore themes of belonging and connection. The show also touches on culturally sensitive topics such as the stolen generation, reconciliation and land rights.
Each theme is beautifully explored through a combination of spoken word and songs performed in English and the languages of the First Nations people; and the unique soundtrack of deep, rhythmic tones is inexplicably powerful and hauntingly beautiful.
Celestial’s talented drone artists bring the stories of ‘Sky Song’ to life in vivid detail using a combination of animated and real drones. Pre-recorded dances and artworks are creatively transformed into animated drone shows which are projected on to large net screens in front of the audience; while overhead drones light up the sky above, creating images of people, animals and flora which seem to dance across the heavens. Each piece is a stunningly crafted display of precision flying which captures the imagination, adding a magical sense of wonder to the show.
The picturesque grounds of Leconfield and Richard Hamilton Winery boasts plenty of space for picnic rugs and chairs, and patrons are encouraged to bring a picnic or sample food and wine from the multitude of food trucks within the venue – meaning you can really make the most of this family-friendly experience.
An awe-inspiring celebration of country and culture.
★★★★☆ ½.
‘Sky Song’ plays as part of Adelaide Fringe until 20 March.