Clancestry

Barragga Yangga

Many Songs

Playhouse, QPAC


7 Aug 2026, 7pm
$49.95 - $59.95

A transaction fee of $7.50 applies.

1 hour 15 minutes

(no interval, subject to change without notice)

Barragga Yangga

Barragga Yangga, meaning ‘Many Songs’ in traditional Dhurga language, is a moving celebration of First Nations language, story and song.

Created under the artistic direction of Cheryl Overton (née Davison), this extraordinary project brings together intergenerational Yuin choir Djinama Yilaga, Heath Cullen, Fred Leone, and more.

The audience will be immersed in classical music, new songs in traditional Dhurga language, and lifted up by local children’s and adult choirs.

This new collection of songs is the culmination of three years of creative development by Djinama Yilaga, Four Winds and the Bundanon Trust. Written by the members of Djinama Yilaga, these songs weave together ancient Yuin stories with deeply personal reflections on family and connection to Country. One song tells of ancestor Bundoola – the lightning and thunder spirit – and his 13 wives from the groups that form the Yuin nation.

Another, “Wandung Bawarr Njiinj”, recounts how whales arrive when the wattle blooms, signalling a journey to higher country. “Yaway”, meaning ‘come and sit down’, threads through the performance, inviting people together while acknowledging the need to keep gathering, retelling stories, and healing from the devastating disruptions of colonisation. Other songs are about growing up on Wallaga Lake Mission, and honour Uncle Jimmy Little. The collection closes with “We Have Tomorrow and She Looks Good”. 

“We have some beautiful stories and songs in this show, all in language … from our past, through these songs, we carry the flames, not the ashes.” Cheryl Overton (née Davison)


Barragga Yangga
is part of ClancestryFind out more about Clancestry.


Credits

Cheryl Overton (née Davison)

Director, songwriter, performer and set design

Djinama Yilaga Choir

Songwriters and performers

Heath Cullen

Composer, songwriter and performer

Roland Peelman

Choral conductor

Stuart Hunter

Orchestration

David Hewitt

Percussion lead

Affinity Quartet

Recorded music by

Fred Leone – Butchulla Songman, local choirs and more!

Featuring

Important Information

Accessibility at QPAC

For wheelchair users, Companion Card holders or those requiring assistance, dedicated seating options are available, and bookings can be made through QPAC's Call Centre by calling 136 246. You can also find information on access and accessibility at QPAC here.

Presented by QPAC as part of Clancestry