Blak & Deadly: The First Nations Gala
As producing partner for Blak & Deadly: The First Nations Gala, we helped Sydney WorldPride (SWP) celebrate and showcase First Nations talent from across the globe. Made by and for First Nations people, it was the only SWP event staged at the Sydney Opera House.
Prior to the concert, VIP guests were welcomed to a traditional Smoking Ceremony. Foyers were filled with colour, food and music.
The concert starred a cornucopia of local and international First Nations artists, showcasing the breadth of talent within the community. Act 1 saw artists performing with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and the Sydney Philharmonia Choir; Act 2 came alive with contemporary song, dance and magnificent lighting.
It was a huge show with a huge cast, and The CWK was tasked with managing a complex schedule within a very short amount of theatre time. We succeeded through extensive planning and consultation with SWP, individual artists and their management. It was a glittering, memorable and important performance which resonated with both First Nations audiences and the LGBTQI+ community.
Achievement
- Delivered on all aspects of the brief, to a very tight budget. (In fact, under budget – our client was extremely grateful.)
- Successfully executed the highly complex schedule, negotiating for extra time at the Sydney Opera House, more rehearsal time with artists and orchestra, managing crew shortages.
- Excellent working relationship with SWP, Sydney Opera House and artists.
- Understanding and supporting full representation of First Nations and LGBTQIA+ people in event crew, to give visibility to the community and maintain cultural relationships.
