Percussion, Conversation, Degustation

The legendary performer, entrepreneur, advocator and restaurateur Duré Dara is at the centre of these beguiling and unusual performances. Over four nights evocative music, sounds, food, song, dance, and conversation are carefully curated and offered in each show. Each evening is unique with different performers that mainly centre around Dara and her work. Each night has a different title and each show has a different emphasis on the overarching themes.

Before Nightfall was the first of the four performances. The improvised percussion performance included musicians from Speak Percussion who specialise in the creation of experimental percussion sounds. In this theatre in the round style show Eugene Ughetti, Kaylie Melville and Duré Dara improvise their way around a range of magically sounding instruments and objects. This was punctuated with conversation and the consumption of delicious food. The instruments are often non-traditional and the objects incorporate everything from chimes and cow bells to cauldrons and platters. Knives and even spatulas are also used to strike or gently stimulate the instruments. The soundscape that is produced is often quite mystical and frequently transcendental.

The performances aim to celebrate Dara's amazing work in a range of spheres and the incredible contribution she has made to culture more widely. A local national treasure of sorts, Dara generously shares her experience and philosophy as she engages with the audience. Dara is humble, dedicated and down-to-earth while also conveying a very calming and airy aura.

There is no way of really telling you what to expect in these shows but I can assure you that the invitation to abandon yourself to what Dara and her friends have created will be irresistible and exceedingly pleasant.

Patricia Di Risio 

Photographer: Darren Gill