Kutcha Edwards' Circling Time coming to Kerang

Published on 26 May 2022

Kutcha Edwards - KUTCHA EDWARDS_2020_063 Susan Carmody.jpg

Renowned Aboriginal singer and songwriter, Kutcha Edwards is bringing his latest show, Circling Time to the Gannawarra this June as part of celebrations marking Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week.

Occurring at the Kerang Memorial Hall on Friday, 17 June from 6pm, the Creative Gannawarra–organised performance in collaboration with local community organisations and agencies will form part of a free evening of family-friendly events celebrating two important weeks for the Gannawarra’s indigenous population.

“It is an honour for our Creative Gannawarra program to bring Kutcha and his latest show to the Gannawarra, especially with his links to the region,” Gannawarra Shire Council Chief Executive Officer, Tom O’Reilly said.

“Kutcha is a songman, not simply a songwriter. He draws on a profound sense of all those who have gone before him on this land, along with his own life experiences, to help his audiences understand themselves, reconnect with their culture and promote cultural understanding.”

Circling Time is based on the album of the same name, recorded during 2020 during Victoria’s first COVID-19 lockdowns, and is arranged in sequences exploring Kutcha’s life through the themes of Country, Birth, Youth, Politics, Love, Culture, Healing and Hope.

“People are enriched by their encounter with Kutcha and left with a broader understanding of Aboriginal culture and how the policies of yesterday have impacted and continue to do so,” Mr O’Reilly said.

“Without a doubt Kutcha leaves audiences enthralled with his performance, his beautiful voice, charismatic stage presence and with a deeper understanding of the Australia’s first people.”

Other events occurring on the night include a Welcome to Country, an Aboriginal art exhibition featuring local works and items from Council’s art collection, Story Time and a performance from Kinja.

“Kinja members, Uncle Ron Murray and Sarah James are no strangers to the Gannawarra, having performed at past Reconciliation Week celebrations and the Koondrook Retreat official opening in 2020,” Mr O’Reilly said.

Attendees are encouraged to bring their own picnic, with food available to purchase on the night.

Bookings are essential, which can be completed by visiting www.trybooking.com/BZIDX

The event is sponsored by the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning and Northern District Community Health, and supported by the Kerang Elders and Leaders Group, Mallee District Aboriginal Services,  the Rotary Club of Kerang and Regional Arts Victoria.

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