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Short Black Opera Short Black Opera i(14970071 works by) (Organisation) assertion
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1 1 Parrwang Lifts the Sky Deborah Cheetham , Deborah Cheetham (composer), 2023 single work musical theatre opera

'Did you know that the Magpies created the first dawn?*

'A long time ago….

'The sky was a blanket on the land. The earth was in darkness and the people were afraid. It was a very sad state of affairs and would have stayed that way except for the courage of Parrwang the Magpie.

'Tjatja and Koki are young, adventurous and tired of living in the dark. When they manage to climb to the highest branches of an ancient gum tree they discover an exciting new world and a steadfast friend in Parrwang - who decides to help the young humans lift the blanket of darkness from the ground.

'A plan is devised - but can Parrwang convince Mr Waa and the Great Council of Birds to agree?

'*Based on an original story from Wadawurrung Country told to the children of the Wathaurong by community Elder, the late Uncle David Tournier.'

Source: Production blurb.

1 1 y separately published work icon Dhungala Choral Connection Songbook Deborah Cheetham , Jessica Hitchcock , Australia : Short Black Opera , 2018 14970079 2018 selected work lyric/song

'This collection of songs features the experiences and languages of Aboriginal Children from around Australia. From Shepparton to Gunnedah, Grafton to Geelong from Portland to Broken Hill, Benalla to Bermagui and Dandenong, to Karijini National Park. Written and composed by Deborah Cheetham and Jessica Hitchcock through the Short Black Opera for Kids program this valuable resource will reveal the beauty and complexity of Aboriginal languages through the powerful medium of song.' (Publication summary)

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