Redland Performing Arts Centre (RPAC) will host a night of Melanesian music and culture when WANTOK Musik performs on the weekend of Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) Independence.
This showcase celebration is a partnership in community cultural development with the Quandamooka Festival and is an exciting opportunity to experience a coming together of Quandamooka and Melanesian communities, artists and musicians.
The evening will feature a fabulous line-up of contemporary and traditional Melanesian musicians. George Telek from PNG will headline the concert, bringing his signature blend of contemporary and traditional Melanesian rhythms to the RPAC stage. Telek will be joined by Charles Maimarosia from the Solomon Islands who will astound with his talent on the pan pipes, Tio from Vanuatu with his outstanding vocals, ukulele, guitar and violin skills and Ben Hakalitz from PNG who will bring 30 years of musical experience and amazing technique on the drums to the night of celebration. They will be joined by a number of other musicians from PNG and West Papua, for an amazing night of indigenous music and culture.
“You will be taken on a fascinating musical journey through Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu by the region’s most talented cultural music artists in George Telek, Charles Maimarosia and Tio, showcasing a magical fusion of traditional and modern sounds and supported by the likes of David Bridie and Ben Hakalitz,” Musician and WANTOK Musik Director John Faunt says.
There will also be the opportunity to enjoy some Melanesian food on the RPAC Piazza and browse the art and craft display in the Concert Hall Foyer to complete a night of Melanesian indulgence. This art and craft display will be open to the public throughout the month of September, to provide more opportunity to enjoy the pieces on display.
