Blak Electric - Queensland Performing Arts Centre

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Wed 05 Nov 2014 - Sat 08 Nov 2014

Blak Electric is an apt title for the 2014 final year production of the Brisbane-based Aboriginal Performing Arts Academy (ACPA) currently being performed at the Cremorne Theatre, Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) (5-8 Nov).

It is a fully-charged performance about the roller coaster of highs and lows which await, challenge and demand resolution for Indigenous Australian youth who relocate to the big city to further their talents. The work, developed collaboratively with ACPA students under the artistic direction of Stephen Helper Lloyd and cultural advice of Les Collins, is brought alive by their diverse and emerging talents in dance, acting and music.

It brims full of energy, humour and pathos to deliver its central and positive message that remembering and honouring connection to country and kin is ultimately what defines, unites and energises Indigenous young Australians into a veritable electric nation.

The positive charge on the opening night was due particularly to the rich combination of many elements of the performing arts. The audience was treated to a live band on stage, poetry written and recited with conviction, powerful solo vocals as well as the lively and colourful ensemble performances enhanced by imaginative costume, set and lighting design.

Several of the highlights for this reviewer were the performances by Naomi Summers of Blue in my Heart (composed by ACPA writer Manduway Dutton) and by Leonard Donahue who in his role of a sweeper by night and medical student by day, engaged directly with and guided the audience through the performance with much humour and insight.

Not surprisingly the audience were enthusiastic and appreciative of the wealth of youthful talent on display in Blak Electric. It is a performance which would be enjoyed by old and young and provides an outstanding example of good live and lively entertainment available in Brisbane this month.

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!date 05/11/2014 -- 08/11/2014
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