2018 Dandenong Ranges Open Studios

One of the Dandenong Ranges most creative and inspiring cultural experiences.

Featuring 30 participating artists and collectives, the 15th Dandenong Ranges Open Studios offers visitors a unique exhibition and open studio weekend. Explore and connect with artists, ignite your creative imagination and step into the hidden gems, curious constructions and awe inspiring spaces of the artists’ creative environments.
Ascend into the hills to meet the creative folk that make this region so creatively vibrant. Visit the studios that most intrigue or inspire you. You will have the unique opportunity to purchase artwork and hand crafted items directly from the artists, informed by new insight into their creative world.
Dandenong Ranges Open Studios is the biggest creative 'Open Door' of the region.

Be ready to explore, enjoy and be inspired!

FEATURING Growing Pains Synapse, Andrea Innocent, Stephen Glover, Rain White, Jacqueline Grace, Michele Fountain, Cameron Semmens, Jessie Yvette Journoud-Ryan, Jacqui Christians, Juet Sculpture, Glenn England, Lee Goller, Jenny Rowe, Brian Baker, Leonie Macredie, Chris Lawry, Wendy Havard, Megan Williamson, Gerard Russo, Susie Parry, Mark Westaway, Yola & Daria, Tracey Roberts, Ches Mills, Leaf Studios, Marta Salamon, Melchior Martin and Heather Bradbury

OPEN STUDIOS WEEKEND Sat & Sun 5 & 6 May 2018

Visit studios between 10am and 5pm
GROUP EXHIBITION AT BURRINJA GALLERY 28 March to 6 May 2018
Exhibition opening and event launch event: 28 March 2018, 7pm - Burrinja Gallery


Full details  at openstudios.org.au

RockaBilbies

RockaBilbies is an original music class for little rockers.

We jam, play drums, dance, sing and act to original songs. We use percussion, ribbons, scarves, puppets, and a parachute to learn about the musical elements - beat, pitch, tempo and dynamics. Kristy plays the guitar and sings songs about letters, numbers, animals, songs for early learning development and songs just for fun.

Kristy is a musician/songwriter and an experienced primary school teacher, having taught as a classroom teacher and a music and drama specialist.

The classes are mixed-age for families, thus catering for different abilities and providing an opportunity for younger children to learn from the older ones. Classes are approximately 45 minutes long and include varied and short activities to keep the little ones entertained. A friendly and relaxed atmosphere, allowing children to participate at their own level and in their own time.

At RockaBilbies we have a lot of fun, build confidence, spark creativity and develop an ongoing love for music. Original and engaging songs create a unique environment that can be enjoyed by the parent or carer just as much as the child.
 
Babies, toddlers, preschoolers with parent/carer participation.

Bookings via Kristy: 0415 288 811 | This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Creative Movement and Drama Classes

PLAY UP: Grades Prep – 2 or Ages 5 – 7 years
The emphasis for this age group is on creative play and improvisation. Classes are designed to stimulate the imagination of young children, through participation in various drama, music and movement activities.

ACT UP: Grade 3 – 4 or Ages 7 – 9 years
These classes are designed to encourage children to become confident in presenting their own ideas and to work together in a group. This is achieved through movement, poetry, songs, scripts and theatre games; providing safe, supported performance opportunities.
 
TROUPE: Grade 5 – 8 or Ages 10 – 13 years
These classes are designed to encourage children to become confident in presenting their own ideas and to work together in a group. This is achieved through movement, poetry, songs, scripts and theatre games; providing safe, supported performance opportunities.

ADVANCED TROUPE: By invitation only
This class is for students showing the commitment to work within certain guidelines enabling them to extend their drama experience and skills. It will be a class requiring focus and dedication and within these guidelines each student should have a fully rounded drama experience, still full of creativity and enjoyment but supported by focused behaviour and extended by more advanced scripts, monologues & movement.

Further information:
Classes are facilitated by Dee Whittington who has many years' experience with children and youth of all ages in the areas of creative movement, drama and music, with fabulous outcomes for the participants.

ANY ENQUIRIES please CONTACT the Box Office: Tue-Fri, 10:00am-4:00pm, 9754-8723 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Rainbows and Sparkles

Have fun and get creative with your child in an engaging art group for pre-schoolers.

Join Gill Cruikshank on a Rainbows and Sparkles creative adventure singing, movement, parachute play, musical instruments and art making using a variety of media.

With a strong focus on parent/ carer participation the class invites children and adults to have fun together exploring creative activities.

Gill Cruikshank is a local creator with 10 years’ experience running this popular class and is passionate about nurturing creative expression shared between children and their families.

Limited spaces available | 60 mins | Suitable ages: 2 – 4 with parent/carer participation

Burrinja Film Forum - Namatjira Project and Q+A with Director Sera Davies 

 

An extraordinary account of the struggle to reclaim the artwork and heritage of one of Australia's most important Indigenous artists, Albert Namatjira. The film grew out of Big hART’s award-winning theatre production about Namatjira’s life and played a powerful role in the campaign for justice for the Namatjira family. Namatjira Project is part of the Burrinja Film Forum series which presents three outstanding films plus talks with the filmmakers celebrating indigenous arts and culture.

April 22 – Namatjira Project  - Q+A with Director Sera Davies

May 20 – Westwind: Djalu’s Legacy  - Q+A with Producer Kate Pappas and NITV Presenter Leila Gurruwiwi 

June 3 – Milpirri: Winds of Change  - Q+A  with Producer and Director Cath South and Stewart Carter.

Suitable for audiences 15 and over Occasional coarse language and adult themes

More info

Weekend Mosaic Workshops

Do you want to get creative with crockery?

This workshop is designed for those of you who would like to indulge in 12hrs or 6hrs of tuition with Jessie Yvette Journoud-Ryan over a single weekend...
Beginners are welcome too (2 days recommended)!
Students may also book for a single day only.

Classes are run by professional artist and qualified teacher Jessie Yvette Journoud-Ryan.
Main materials will be supplied (Tools, adhesives, a selection of crockery...).

Workshop Specifications:
- A pre-prepared marine-ply surface will be provided (and optional).
- You are free to bring along your own pre-prepared surface of any dimension.
- Possibility of a grouting session for works completed prior to the actual weekend.
- The workshop will effectively be booked for 12hrs in total over the weekend, so you can choose what kind of breaks you prefer at any time.

Program each day:
- 2hrs in the morning (10am-12pm).
- 1hr window for lunch (Optional).
- 3hrs in the afternoon (1pm-4pm)

Please note that a No Refund ticketing policy applies to late cancellations (within 7 days of the scheduled workshop).
Ideal ages 18+

The Wonder WigWam - Amy Middleton & Dave Thompson

Burrinja Kids Stay and Play free family activity by local artists 

The Wonder Wigwam is an interactive visual and sound installation for children and families. Created as a catalyst for imaginary play, The Wonder Wigwam uses books, environment and sensory triggers to evoke imagination and wonder. It brings together elements of an outdoor dwelling that includes a wigwam constructed from wood, fabric and found materials, interactive lighting, a soundscape, and a range of books for children to enjoy that directly engages with theme of imaginary contemplation/play and idea generation. Illustrative books that do not include text will also be included for those who find reading difficult due to age or language barriers. The installation will include a soundscape made in collaboration with local sound artist Dave Thomson. The purpose of the soundscape is to offer our participants sensory triggers that support the idea of an outdoor environment. The natural environment of the Dandenong Ranges plays a large role in the conceptual development of Dave's art practice which compliments the outdoor theme of The Wonder Wigwam.


More about Burrinja Kids - Stay and Play

 

The Orchid & The Crow

By Daniel Tobias of ‘Die Roten Punkte’

"Whip-smart, hilarious and deeply moving." The Age

A comedy about an atheist surviving cancer by finding God in Lance Armstrong.

Reflecting on Daniel’s real life (and almost death) experience, ‘The Orchid and the Crow’ is a solo performance that is part story-telling, part-theatre, featuring original songs from the award-winning writers of Otto & Astrid (Die Roten Punkte).
 
Daniel Tobias effortlessly draws us into the inspiring tale of his near-death experience in this funny, uplifting story of faith, family and survival. Delve into this original, hilarious, brilliantly clever and ultimately moving story that audiences have described as 'life-changing'. Join Tobias as he delves into rarely discussed themes with a humour that makes them accessible.

Running time 70 minutes | no interval
Suitable for audiences 15 and over
Occasional coarse language and adult themes



More info

 

 

Nicholas Chamber Orchestra

Lyrical Serenades

The Yarra Ranges based Nicholas Chamber Orchestra presents music reflecting the beauty of English gardens, such as inspired the orchestra's name – the Alfred Nicholas Gardens. Hear enchanting and poignant works by English masters Vaughn Williams and Elgar, and soaring musical eloquence from Mozart, Greig and Telemann, interpreted for you by the Dandenongs based English born conductor and pedagogue, Alan Took, and with a special performance by Evonne Hampton on flute. Let this programme soothe your cares away – just like a pleasant afternoon in a fragrant garden.

'We are excited to work again with Alan to present such an evocative selection of works by some of our favourite composers'. Judy Hamilton, Nicholas Chamber Orchestra

Running 90 minutes | plus 20 minute interval
All Ages

 

 

Jutta Malnic: Mwaga -  A bird at the end of the world

Mwaga is a photographic essay captured by Jutta Malnic on a small island in the East of Papua New Guinea in the 1980s. It shows the near-synergic relationship between the people on the island and the Mwaga gannets, a bird species locally referred to as ‘navigator birds’. Ancient Polynesian seafarers used these birds’ behaviour and movements as a navigation guide. 

Jutta Malnic is a Sydney-based photographer born in Berlin to a German father and Australian mother in 1924. After her family move to Australia in 1948, Jutta Malnic soon began to work as a on-board photographer for a shipping line. Between 1950 and 1969, Jutta Malnic sailed on 72 cruises around the South Pacific Islands. She developed deep relationships with the people of the region. Talking to the islands’ Chiefs, shermen, women and children, she was taught about the culture and legends in the Pacific Islands — and captured her impressions through the lens of her camera. Throughout her career she published several books.

Presented in cooperation with Goethe-Institut Australien.

Join us for the exhibition opening at 2pm on Sunday 6 May

Bleeding Hearts  - Human Rights and Cognitive Dissonance in the “lucky country”. 

Eliza Phillips

In the exhibition Bleeding Hearts Dandenong Ranges resident Eliza Phillips investigates the disparity in Australia between the mythologised nationalist illusion of a ‘fair go’ and the systematic vilification of minoritygroups and social justice advocates. Eliza Phillips is a Burrinja studio artist who works across different mediums, utilising text and recycled materials to explore themes of social justice.

Join us for the exhibition opening at 3 - 5 PM on Saturday 12 May

 

Walls as Witness

Stephen Glover

Created in a non-objective style, Stephen Glover's work draws intuitively upon influences from the natural and constructed world, employing an interplay between the expressive potential of both brush and palette knife. Surface patinas, scrapings and textures reveal layers from another time and act as witness to what has gone before. "This is my response to the shifting nature and impermanence of living each day”, says Stephen Glover, who is one of Burrinja’s studio artists.

Join us for the exhibition opening at 2- 4 PM on Saturday 12 May

Artist Talk 2 - 3 PM - Saturday 2 June 

Funny Ladies…

Created and performed by Hilary Henshaw and Will Conyers

A rib-tickling musical celebration of the wonderful and hilarious women of yesteryear.

Join Hilary Henshaw and Will Conyers for this rib-tickling tour de force, remembering best-loved comedy pieces of yesteryear, rediscovered gems, more recent funnies and sensational signature songs. Be enthralled with fabulous music and stories from comedy icons including Gracie Fields, Beatrice Lillie, Joyce Grenfell, Fanny Brice, Sophie Tucker, Blossom Dearie, Noel Coward and Stephen Sondheim!

Just direct your feet to the funny side of the street for your quota of humour, nostalgia, unexpected surprises and of course some ridiculously rapturous tunes.

“A funny fabulous show. Loved every minute!” - John-Michael Howson OAM

Running time 90 minutes | plus 20 minute interval



More info

 

 

Burrinja Film Forum - Westwind: Djalu's Legacy and Q+A with Producer Kate Pappas and NITV Presenter Leila Gurruwiwi 

 

Didgeridoo master, shaman, and Yolngu elder Djalu Gurruwiwi, is running out of time to pass on sacred songlines, entrusted to him for the future of his people. In an effort to save his culture, Djalu breaks with tradition to travel the world, shares his music with global pop star Gotye, and inspires his son Larry, his family and community to keep Yolngu culture alive.

April 22 – Namatjira Project   - Q+A with Director Sera Davies

May 20 – Westwind: Djalu’s Legacy  - Q+A with Producer Kate Pappas and NITV Presenter Leila Gurruwiwi

June 3 – Milpirri: Winds of Change  - Q+A with Producer and Director Cath South and Stewart Carter.

Suitable for audiences 15 and over Occasional coarse language and adult themes

More info

WAM (Where Artists Meet)

Burrinja invites you to our local Artist Social.

Offered as Bi monthly events throughout the year, these regular gatherings propose space for connecting and developing conversation between local creatives. WAM provides a fun and friendly environment to talk shop with other artists, share tips, discuss creative practice, projects and local arts and culture. With the Dandenong Ranges rich and abundant cultural landscape Burrinja’s WAM events are a great opportunity to develop new creative networks, find out about potential opportunities and connect with your local arts community.

As well as connecting with other local practitioners over a drink, each event will touch on a different arts issue or skill. Special guests will be invited to share their insight, their secrets and their stories. We will learn, share and laugh together as we celebrate the rich local arts community.

Artists of all art forms are invited

Hotel Sorrento

Hannie Rayson’s iconic Australian drama

Sweep into this multi award winning, iconic Australian drama.

Hotel Sorrento is a potent tale of family, loyalty, the importance of blood ties and collective memory - whether true or false.

Be drawn into ‘Hotel Sorrento’s ‘enthralling story of a family in crisis, pulled together after a long period apart. A mood of melancholy and strong sense of place engulf a family whose members are all forced into reassessing themselves, their past and their affections before facing an unknown future.

Playwright Hannie Rayson’s award winning pen-ship ( Life After George, Inheritance and Two Brothers,) deftly encapsulates larger social, political and cultural issues through the prism of a personal and domestic conflicts.

“Rayson puts all the issues out there and explores corners of the human heart…” The Sunday Mail

Running time 100 minutes | plus 20 minute interval



More info

 

 

Grigoryan Brothers

Songs Without Words

Indulge your senses in an afternoon with one of Australia’s finest classical guitar duos: the Grigoryan Brothers.

The Grigoryan Brothers return to Burrinja with their passion for sumptuous new arrangements and their own evocative compositions. Consistently pushing classical guitar into genres such as jazz, folk and contemporary music, the brothers know no boundaries as they traverse new musical frontiers.

For this special Burrinja concert The Grigoryan Brothers will perform works from their latest release ‘Songs Without Words’, marking a return to classical repertoire. With songs by composers including Bach, Elgar, Dvorak, Rachmaninoff, Faure, De Falla and Ponce all masterfully arranged for the brothers by their father Edward.

“Guitar playing of uncommon originality and authority. Musicality, expressivity and daring,” - The New York Times

90 minutes | plus 20 minute interval



More info

 

 

Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow

A home-delivery of hot and tasty comic treats!

A bounty of belly laughs is rolling into Burrinja - pack your laughing gear and get on board the hilarity and fun of the Melbourne International Comedy Roadshow!

Gather a gaggle for a night of giggles and laugh out loud entertainment you won’t forget with some of the best comedians of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival! This roving tour-de-comedy features funny-makers from Australia and beyond, showcasing everything from stand-up and sketch to satire and song - in one side-splitting show!

Stay tuned for this year’s stellar line-up of fabulous comedians.

‘You are guaranteed a night filled with nothing but good feelings and laughter’ Pelican Magazine, Perth (WA)

Running 115 minutes | plus 20 minute interval
May contain coarse language, sexual references and material that can offend
Smoke Machine/Hazer may be used during this performance



More info

 

 

Burrinja Film Forum - Milpirri: Winds of Change and Q+A with Producer and Director Cath South and Stewart Carter.  

This warm and winning film engages us with a unique cross-cultural event created and performed by the Warlpiri people of Lajamanu in the Northern Territory. Working with Tracks Dance Company from Darwin, the community brings ceremony and theatre together. Old songs are mixed with new, Elders perform stories in the traditional way, which the youth interpret in hip hop dance. This biennial event brings the community together - indigenous and non-indigenous, black, white, old, young, modern and traditional; It reminds us that we need to listen to home, the country we share.

April 22 – Namatjira Project - Q+A with Director Sera Davies

May 20 – Westwind: Djalu’s Legacy - Q+A with Producer Kate Pappas and NITV Presenter Leila Gurruwiwi

June 3 – Milpirri: Winds of Change  - Q+A with Producer and Director Cath South and Stewart Carter.

Suitable for audiences 15 and over Occasional coarse language and adult themes

More info

Eco-printed Artist Books

These workshops offers you the opportunity to immerse more deeply into the reflective practice of eco- printing as you craft a collection of eco-printed hand bound artist books. You will experiment with creating multiple bundles, exploring the interactions between different, leaves, metals, ways of wrapping and mordanting. Along the way you will be have the opportunity to use eco-printing as a mindfulness practice; noticing what is present for you in your making practice and creating space for these knowings through image, word play and your body. You will finish the day with a textured collection of bespoke artist books, prints, knowings and connection to the ecology within yourself and without.

Over the course of the two days you will:
    Learn how to eco-print on paper
    Set up a dye pot
    Discuss mordants
    Utilise arts- based tools for personal reflection
    Engage in group work in support of your inquiry
    Learn how to hand bind books
    Develop tools for ongoing self-reflection
    Take home a collection of your own handcrafted artist books.

"For me,  the final stages of the workshop and constructing our makings into books was what gave the fluidity of the inquiry process concrete form.  My paper underwent the eco-printing journey covered in the words of my curiosities, my dreams and fears so it felt enlivening and restorative to be able to work with these values and emotions in a  transformational way across modalities, moving from poetry to printing to tearing to stitching. I intentionally bound my printed pieces amongst fresh sheets of paper to give space and time for more to come." – Bec Wisby

Are you in a caring/support role? We are committed to supporting sustainable work practices. We recognise the tenuous line between giving and burn out. We would like to extend a limited number of significantly subsided places to those who would benefit from attending this workshop to sustain their practice. Please contact us to apply: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Foundations in a Reflective Eco-printing Practice

In these one day workshops you are invited to come with a child’s mind and play with eco-printing techniques on paper. You will experiment with creating multiple bundles, exploring the interactions between different, leaves, metals, ways of wrapping and mordanting. Along the way you will be have the opportunity to use eco-printing as a mindfulness practice; noticing what is present for you in your making practice and creating space for these knowings through image, word play and your body. You will finish the day with a textured collection of prints, knowings and connection to the ecology within yourself and without.

Over the course of the day you will:

    Learn how to eco-print on paper
    Set up a dye pot
    Discuss mordants
    Utilise arts- based tools for personal reflection
    Develop tools for ongoing self-reflection
    Take home a collection of your own bespoke eco-printed works.

"The experience of creating eco dyed paper . . . was a revelation. I’ve always made things with my hands but it was the first time I’ve done a workshop where the focus was on the process itself rather than the technique or the outcome." – Indrani Perera, Maker and Writer

The Lux Radio Theatre presents
The Agatha Christie Radio Mysteries

Be drawn into the drama, suspense and intrigue of Agatha Christie’s fabulous murder mysteries with Lux Radio Theatre’s classic recreations of two recently rediscovered radio plays.

High society cocktail parties, railways stations, boarding schools and ghostly callers set the scenes as Agatha Christie’s ‘Personal Call’ and ‘Butter in a Lordly Dish’ come to life on the Burrinja stage.

Find yourself on the edge of your seat as acclaimed Lux Radio Theatre actors bring these fabulously enthralling tales to life on stage - complete with hand crafted sound effects and vintage soap commercials. Let your imagination run wild as this group of top Melbourne theatre and screen actors recreate the pre-television days live on stage.

‘It was like stepping back in time to days when the family would gather around the wireless to listen to their favourite radio play.’

Running time 65 minutes | no interval



More info

 

 

Diode

Gerard Russo

Diode is an exhibition of illuminated copper works by Belgrave artist Gerard Russo. Using a unique copper plate composite his art practise involves traditional woodworking, painting and copper etching. ‘Diode’ explores nature, the industrial, the conscious and temporality. With each artefact the original artwork is destroyed to reveal the copper plate.  Illuminated from within; the art speaks with lux. The self-illuminating works create ambience, detaching the observer from the space in an immersive experience of light, questioning linear perceptions of time and journey. 

Join us for the exhibition opening at 2 - 4 pm on Saturday 16 June 

Love, Thieves and Fear make Ghosts

Andrea Innocent

Ghost stories and mythology are present in both Western and Eastern cultures, however the history of these tales in Japan date back thousands of years through to the present day, as can be seen in the new medium known as J-horror; highlighting a vibrant continuous narrative.

The folklore surrounding these is well ingrained in the Japanese psyche and presents an opportunity for them to be shared across cultures to both surprise and challenge commonly held views and assumptions.

The prints featured in 'Love, Thieves and Fear make ghosts' utilize recurring Japanese motifs and the stylized imagery of block prints with a strong emphasis on shape, contrasting the ephemeral and nebulous `ghost’ subject matter with the dramatic physical presence of the visual works. 

Vince Jones & Paul Grabowsky
Provenance

Tune into the lingering and luscious tones of Vince Jones and Paul Grabowsky live on the Burrinja stage.

Based on their new album featuring a survey of intimate ballads, ‘Provenance’ showcases the superlative craftsmanship of platinum-selling legendary singer Vince Jones and multi-ARIA-winning pianist Paul Grabowsky.

‘Provenance’ marks a renewed collaboration between this pair of Australian music legends after decades apart. It also describes the music: ballads that showcase the essential elements of their craft, fundamentals that have been the foundations of their astonishing careers, pared down to an intimate combination of piano and voice (and occasionally piano and flumpet – a hybrid of trumpet and flugelhorn).

“Undoubted vocal expression aided by superb piano accompaniment” -The Advertiser John McBeath

Running time 90 minutes | plus 20 minute interval



More info

 

 

Splash Test Dummies

By the Trash Test Dummies

Rub-a-dub-dub, The Dummies are back with some splish splashing circus set to drown you in tears of laughter.

From the makers of hit show Trash Test Dummies comes a new production of oceanic proportions! Splash Test Dummies are ready to roll out their beach towels and spring into a brand new hour of circus filled hilarity for the whole family. Prepare your eyes to be boggled with this brilliant array of catch-your-breath stunt work, acrobatics, juggling and the side-splitting, slapstick comedy for which the dummies are famous.

Join the Dummies and come dive from bathtubs to beaches in this new aquatic adventure.

“filled with hi-jinx, acrobatics dancing and juggling but where they really excel is their clowning around and slapstick humor.” Ed Fest Mag ★★★★★

Running time 60 minutes | no interval
Ideal ages 5 – 14 years



More info

 

 

Burrinja Circus Festival 2018

With Ruccis circus school

Roll-up into the 6th annual Burrinja Circus Festival!

Get your Winter holidays sparkling with a week of fun circus entertainment for the whole family.

Set your circus groove to a gallop with awe inspiring professional shows, student shows, classes and family activities for all skill levels and interests. 

This year’s circus festival feature brings the electrifying Trash Test Dummies back to the Burrinja stage with their hilarious new show ‘Splash Test Dummies’. With awe-inspiring stunt work, acrobatics, juggling and side-splitting, slapstick comedy, get the whole family ready to laugh and join them on this new aquatic adventure of oceanic proportions.

‘Burrinja’s circus festival is my families favourite school holiday activity, there’s something for everyone - the kids leave with new skills and we are all entertained and inspired.’

Ideal for ages 2+



More info

 

 

Dinosaur Time Machine

A fabulous fun family show

Buckle up and take a trip in a giant time machine to get up close and personal with a life-sized T-Rex!

Excite you inner palaeontologist with this glimpse back into an unforgettable history. Let science and the creative visual imagery of this masterpiece of children’s educational entertainment charm you with wonder and delight in a fabulous family show of circus, puppetry, simple narrative and imaginative play.

‘Dinosaur Time Machine’ is a fabulous fun family show presenting up to date science and discoveries made about dinosaurs and the world in which they lived. Be part of the action with inclusive storytelling and imaginative play - full fun facts and entertainment.

“an articulate, entertaining, educational and extremely funny mix of the science of dinosaurs and comedy… Dinosaur Time Machine is good, really good. It's funny and clever… Take the kids and be prepared for a wild ride and watch out for the TRex!” - Weekend Notes 2017

Duration 55 minutes | no interval
Ideal for ages 3-9



More info

 

 

Kasey Chambers

and the Fireside Disciples

Campfire Tour

Join Kasey Chambers by the “ Campfire” for a musical journey through the stories of places, people, cultures and sounds that have inspired one of Australia’s most revered performers.

“Campfire is an album I have wanted to make my whole life and represents the connection I’ve had to the different lands and cultures throughout my life that have influenced me the most.   I have taken all of those experiences and put them into songs and sounds for Campfire. Join us for a very special evening of music and stories of the places, people, cultures and sounds that I would like to share with you all around my Campfire.”

Running 150 minutes | includes 20 minute interval & Support Act
All Ages



More info

Add an extra dose of country to your calendar. See Kasey Chambers and the Taste of Tamworth at the special price of $83 + $2.5 bf per Adult & $58. + $2.5 bf per Youth 15yrs & under. To purchase our Country Bundle click the "book tickets button", add the Kasey Chambers tickets to your cart, and head to the check out. Then follow the prompts.

Please note the Country Bundle is only available when purchasing Kasey Chambers tickets and taste of Tamworth in the same transaction.

A Taste Of Tamworth

Featuring Carter & Carter, Felicity Urquhart, Travis Sinclair and Anthony Taylor

GiddyUPwey!

Dust off those cowboy boots and get ready to bust out some serious boot-scooting as Burrinja prepares to welcome ‘A Taste Of Tamworth’ - Australia’s biggest music festival to the stage with four award winning acts in one big show.

Golden Guitar Winners – Carter & Carter, Felicity Urquhart and Travis Sinclair team up with rising star Anthony Taylor, to bring you an authentic taste of Tamworth.

With each act presenting their own form of music and unique personality on the Burrinja stage, hear the artist’s intimate accounts and stories behind the songs, then join in for a big team fun filled finale.

‘You don’t know country music until you’ve seen Tamworth’

Running 140 minutes | plus 20 minute interval
All Ages



More info

Add an extra dose of country to your calendar. See Kasey Chambers and the Taste of Tamworth at the special price of $83 + $2.5 bf per Adult & $58. + $2.5 bf per Youth 15yrs & under. To purchase our Country Bundle, head over to the Kasey Chambers page click the "book tickets button", add the Kasey Chambers tickets to your cart, and head to the check out. A pop up will prompt you to add Taste of Tamworth tickets to the transaction.

Please note the Country Bundle is only available to when purchasing Kasey Chambers tickets and taste of Tamworth in the same transaction.

Women Painting Women   

Realist portrait painting by Australian female artists.   

Women Painting Women is a major exhibition of portraiture oil painting and features recent works by Sally Ryan (NSW), Megan Roodenrys (SA), Dagmar Cyrulla, Vicki Sullivan, Fiona Bilbrough, Raelene Sharp and Heather Ellis (all VIC).

Giving insights into the relationships between the artists and their sitters (among these Yorta-Yorta soprano Deborah Cheetham, actress Sigrid Thornton, domestic violence campaigner Rosie Batty and labour senator Penny Wong), the works touch on a variety of contemporary themes while revealing personal stories of reward and loss.

Taking its inspiration from the realist painting movement in the United States, the exhibition celebrates the talent of female portrait artists and the women who sit for them, and is the second instalment at Burrinja after its successful show in 2016.    

"This exhibition uniquely honours the female spirit - of realist painters and their sitters” - artist Vicki Sullivan

A Gallery Concert of Women’s Musical Compositions

Compositions by Jacqui Rutten, Johanna Selleck and Dindy Vaughan

Breeze into the harmonious tones of new compositions by three female composers presenting their works for combinations of  mezzo soprano, violin, viola, flute, harp and wind quintet in a special intimate Gallery concert at Burrinja.

Inspired by the natural environment, these exceptional composers of international recognition come together to present a very special performance highlighting the musical talent of contemporary female composers.

Experience this refreshing and un-amplified concert as part of our ‘Women Painting Women’ exhibition presenting women’s voices front and centre stage at Burrinja. Join Jacqui Rutten, Johanna Selleck and Dindy Vaughan for a sensational musical experience surrounded by beautiful paintings by some of Australia’s most prominent female painters.

Be moved by this classically inspired, intimate and relaxed concert and enjoy special insight into the music as the composers discuss the creative processes behind the works and their influences.

Jacqui Rutten’s "Compositions[are] sincerely crafted, they hold together in a very personal way." – John Rose

Running time 60 minutes | no interval



More info

 

 

Letters to Lindy

A mother’s loss, a nation’s obsession

Portrayed with humour and heartbreak, this enthralling work by award-winning playwright Alana Valentine (Parramatta Girls, Head Full of Love) explores the public’s relationship with one of 20th Century Australia’s most iconic figures.

The story captivated a nation. A mother accused of murdering her child, her claim – that the baby was taken by a dingo – denied and discredited by zealous police and a flawed legal system. The media circus, the rumours, the mob mentality, and a nation’s prejudices laid bare.

Based on the gamut of human responses to Lindy’s story expressed in over 20,000 letters, this piece offers an enthralling, moving, and long overdue dialogue between Lindy and the nation.

“…a fascinating collage depicting Australian attitudes to grief, justice, celebrity, and to women who do not conform to expectations…” - Jason Blake, Sydney Morning Herald

By Alana Valentine
A Merrigong Theatre Company production in association with Canberra Theatre Centre
This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council, its arts funding and advisory body

Running time 110 minutes | plus 20 minute interval
Contains strong language and adult themes
Recommended for ages 13+



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Who Am I…? 

Welcome back our carryover champion! 

One man, one remote, one screen. Three suits, eight nights. One moment in the maelstrom to define a lifetime - or face national humiliation.

Burst into the hilarious, silly and life affirming story of 1990s Australia and one man’s attempt to scale the summit of all Australian quiz shows, Sale of the Century.

With direction from Stephen Abbott, best known as The Sandman this is an hilarious true story of dedication, perseverance and grit. Written and performed by Russell Cheek ‘Who Am I’ shares his story of climbing out of unemployed-actor poverty by attempting to win the jackpot on Sale of the Century in 1993.

"An Absolute treat…carefree and comic delight. Fascinating and funny. Winning, warm and rewarding.” - Australian Stage

Written and performed by Russell Cheek
Directed by Stephen Abbott

Running time 80 minutes | no interval
Warnings: some adult language
Age recommendation 15yrs+


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Wild Awards 2018

The Wildlife Art Society of Australasia presents their major biennial exhibition ‘The Wild Awards’ in the Burrinja Gallery.

Be moved by this unique exhibition and the passion and talent of a diverse range of artists from the Australasian region. The exhibition features an exquisite array of different animal species and habitats in sculpture, painting and works on paper.

‘The Wild Awards’ encapsulates art excellence and this fine display proudly demonstrates the Society members’ strong passion and respect for wildlife and its habitat. Be delighted and inspired by this stunning collection of beautiful wildlife imagery by The Wildlife Art Society of Australasia.

“Intriguing and inspiring artwork. It’s always a joy to see a WASA exhibition.”- Kris Peter President Wildlife Art Society of Australasia

Sutherland Trio

Icarian brings a spirit of daring and vision to a chamber music program that combines the sparkling lightness of Beethoven's early chamber music with the soaring melodies of Brahms and Piazzolla's toe-tapping tango.
Mary Finsterer's Icarian is an atmospheric new work that soars the heights of achievements beyond ordinary human capacity, to transcend limits of human endeavour whilst knowing the fragility of life itself.
Program
Icarian
Ludwig van Beethoven – Piano Trio No.8 in B-flat, WoO39
Josef Suk - Elegy
Mary Finsterer – Icarian
Smetana - Piano Trio Bedrich Smetana Piano Trio in G Minor, Op.15


Running 60 minutes | no interval
All Ages

 

 

Master of Aboriginal Contemporary Art #2    
Minnie Pwerle : Beginnings 

Celebrating the work of one of the world’s great painters. 

Minnie Pwerle (1919-2006) grew up at Utopia, a former cattle station 300 km northeast from Alice Springs (also known as Urupuntja), home to the Anmatjerre language group. The story of her life was one of struggle and endurance. In 1999, at the age of 80, she took up painting and soon gained national recognition. The use of bold brushstrokes and bold, vibrant colours became her trademark, as did paintings of small bush melons and women’s body-painting designs.  
The exhibition surveys Minnie’s Pwerle’s oeuvre and features a series of unseen paintings including the very first ones she produced in 1999.
    
"Paintings of striking expressionistic quality.” – Burrinja Curator JD Mittmann

Macdeth

An hilarious cautionary tale

A funny, fake-bloody tale of greed and power - this is Shakespeare unplugged and re-wired, performed with stupidity and skill!

Get into the guts of this Shakespearean delicacy - a hilarious, cautionary tale, spiced with rich evocative language and a healthy dose of invention and idiocy - like Horrible Histories live on stage.

This side-splitting interpretation of the haunting classic tale pulls no punches, leaving in all the murder and foul play; the injustice and cruelty, and the horror of one man’s ambition gone horribly wrong... in a fun and fabulous way.

Company 13’s Macdeth is a cracking, updated, kid-friendly classic, filled with physical comedy and the tastiest morsels of Shakespeare’s prose.

‘…the play brings the violent tale to life with clowning prowess, false teeth falling in the cauldron and fake blood explosions of silly string spewing all over the stage.’ Theatre Press, Rebecca Waese

Running time 60 minutes | no interval
Ideal ages 8 -15


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The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show

Based on Eric Carle's books

The Very Hungry Caterpillar’ emerges off the page in a masterful theatrical experience for the whole family.
 
Journey through four of Eric Carle’s incredible stories performed live on stage in this enchanting theatre show. Featuring the ‘Very Hungry Caterpillar’ and other delightful characters from Eric Carle’s bestselling classic tales including, ‘The Artist Who Painted A Blue Horse’, ‘Mr. Seahorse' and ‘The Very Lonely Firefly’.

Created by Jonathan Rockefeller and directed by Naomi Edwards, this magical show comes to life with 75 exquisite puppets created by New York's Puppet Kitchen.

“and - pop! - out of the egg came a tiny and very hungry caterpillar.”

Running time 50 minutes | no interval
Age recommendation 0-7



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B2M (Bathurst to Melville Tiwi Islands) – MAMANTA

Step into a pumping RnB concert, Tiwi Islands style!

Mamanta –‘friend’ in Tiwi – pairs seven piece band B2M’s acclaimed R&B music and performance with captivating footage of life and culture in the Tiwi Islands. Showcasing their new album, Mamanta is a vibrant cultural experience told through a mix of dance, chants and song.

Find yourself tuned to the beat of their unique sound as they bring you a rare insight into their island culture delivered with their trademark wit, musicality and charm. If you haven’t had an opportunity to travel to the Tiwi Islands, this unique blend of contemporary and traditional sounds is sure to take you on an illuminating and uplifting journey.

‘“B2M…wow, the music, the joy, the talent- it was contagious. It would have been a standing ovation that demanded an encore- but everyone was already on their feet dancing! We couldn’t get enough of them!” Phaedra Watts, Artistic Director, Nannup Music Festival

Running 70 minutes | no interval
Strobe and Laser lighting



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hillsceneLIVE 2018

Inspired by the brave and excited by the bold.

Explore live art in a forest edge festival and find yourself engaging with experimental artists and their enthralling works

hillsceneLIVE is a weekend live art festival inspired and created by artists who take juicy risks, ask big questions and make bold statements with their work. Experience live art and performance, including Theatre, Dance, Sound Art, Comedy, Spoken Word, Circus and especially those works that don't fit easily into these categories.

Each year the hillsceneLIVE festival comes to life in an under utilsed space in the Dandenong Ranges, from old offices and heritage cottages to public gardens. Explore live art in a forest edge festival where you’ll find yourself in spaces from wide landscapes, to nooks and crannies – engaging with experimental artists and their enthralling works.

“hillsceneLIVE was an incredible journey on which you never knew what was around the corner. It was a chance to interact and step outside your comfort zone and the more you went along with it, the more you were able to gain. I cam away feeling inspired to create.” Audience member - 2016

 

 

Black Mist Burnt Country

In the 1950s Australia became the nuclear testing ground for the British Government. A total of 12 atomic tests were conducted. Sixty years after the events Black Mist Burnt Country revisits the history of the test program at Maralinga, Emu Field and Monte Bello Island, through works by Indigenous and non-Indigenous artists across the mediums of painting, printmaking, sculpture, photography, music and new media spanning seven decades.  An award winning Burrinja national touring exhibition.    

“Powerful, though-provoking, moving - a must-see.” - 2017 Audience member

Belong...
Become a Burrinja Member

Connect with your community and support arts in the Hills with your $40, and we will give you:

• One FREE theatre ticket each year to a Burrinja show *
  
• Member ticket discounts on Burrinja shows
  
• Free ticket postage
• Updates, insights and special programs
• Special event invitations
• Member priority new season booking
• 10% off Burrinja gallery shop

By becoming a Burrinja Member you will be supporting local arts and culture as well as the many local projects that Burrinja manages, supports and enable - building community through arts.

* Available for Burrinja season shows only excludes venue hire 'No Free Tickets' shows

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Big Dance Australia Workshops

Big Dance is the largest free celebration of dance in the world and it's hitting Australia in 2018! 

Presented by Ausdance Victoria, Big Dance is a free participatory dance festival, a celebration of dance for all ages and all levels of ability. Join thousands of people around Australia to perform the Big Dance, choreographed by acclaimed choreographers, Frances Rings and Craig Bary.

In partnership with Burrinja Cultural Centre and Yarra Ranges Council, workshops will be held in March and April to help you learn the Big Dance routine. These sessions are free and open to people of all ages and abilities. Register to secure your spot as spaces are limited.

No prior dance experience is necessary to participate.

This is an inclusive event. If you require mobility assistance or an interpreter, please let us know

Session times:

 

17 April 2018 (Tues), 2.00pm - 3.30pm

19 April 2018 (Thurs), 10.00am - 11.30am 

22 April 2018 (Sun), 11.00am - 12.30pm

22 April 2018 (Sun), 1.30pm - 3.00pm

Book your spot now