Destinations

Returning after its cancellation in 2020 due to the global pandemic, the OzAsia Festival is a welcome return for those who have missed the arts - across all genres. For two weeks we can immerse ourselves in the works of many talented artists, celebrating our Asian connections.

Prior to the opening, Indigenous trio Ngangki Warra (Women’s Voice) brought the audience to its feet to clap and stomp in recognition of our original owners and heritage. It was a moving start to the evening.

The recently refurbished Her Majesty’s Theatre was a perfect setting to highlight the extraordinary talents of Taiwanese born pianist Belle Chen. Originally commissioned by Chinese Arts Now, her latest offering, Destinations, is difficult to categorise. A mixture of classical piano, synthesisers and electric keys is the foundation of an eclectic display of visual installations.

Designer Nick Robertson, Projectionist Jayden Sutherland, and Visual Artist Mario Radev give depth to an immersive soundtrack. A celebration of our planet - images of jungles, coastlines and coral reefs are projected on three cycloramas. The vivid colours of the imagery only add to the experience.

Growing up in Brisbane, Australia and relocating to London to attend the Royal Academy of Music in 2011, it did not take long for Chen’s talents to be recognised. During her time in London, she began experimenting with the combination of classical piano and sound art.

Destinations is filled with motifs, combined with the sounds of moving water and wildlife noises. Chen uses a laptop to mix the samples and bring a combination of sounds that compliments the imagery. Displaying enormous talent and imagination, the audience’s senses are filled with a collaboration that is stunningly emotive.

Chen’s compositions, whilst experimental, allow the audience to pull apart and make sense of the sights and sounds and, surprisingly, there is a familiarity to the images that allow for meaning. It is a breathtaking combination. Up until the final bass note on the piano the audience sat spellbound.

Kerry Cooper

Photographer: Lidia Crisafulli