Entertainment
3 July, 2022
WORLD PREMIERE From Campfire to Stage Light
FROM a childhood spent on outback cattle stations to world tours and serendipitous moments in the sun, the extraordinary life of First Nations’ Australian, David Bindi Hudson, is at the centre of an exciting new co-production, From Campfire to Stage Light by JUTE Theatre Company and Didge-Ralia.
Celebrating its world premiere on Thursday, July 7, 2022, during Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF), the nine-show season of From Campfire to Stage Light is an autobiographical story performed by the master storyteller himself, David Bindi Hudson.
A born and bred Far North Queenslander from Ewamian Country located in the Gulf of Carpentaria savannah lands, David Bindi Hudson is known for his star quality and a rare combination of talents that shine bright in whatever he sets his mind to – be it singer-songwriter, dancer, actor, visual artist, or cultural leader for Indigenous Australia.
In preparing to deliver his one-man-play to audiences in Cairns next month, Mr Hudson said he hopes From Campfire to Stage Light will inspire a new generation of artists and performers.
“I can’t wait to take the audience with me on what is a very personal journey grounded in my connection to culture and Country and commitment to intergenerational knowledge sharing,” Mr Hudson said.
“I feel incredibly honoured and proud that I have this opportunity and can do so in such a special and intimate theatre setting, complete with the highest quality production values.
“For this support, I thank JUTE and their supremely dedicated, passionate, and award-winning team.”
JUTE Theatre Company’s Artistic Director and CEO Suellen Maunder said David is an extraordinary performer, and his story is one just waiting to be told and under the direction of First Nations’ Director, Isaac Drandic, this story will have a powerful impact on stage.
“In this our 30th year of telling Australian stories, there is no better story than David’s story befitting this special occasion,” Ms Maunder said.
“From Campfire to Stage Light is a play about opportunity, hope and how one man’s affinity with culture and the arts can inspire and ignite a whole new generation of storytellers and for this, JUTE is also immensely proud.”
From Campfire to Stage Light is laden with yarns and jewels of Hudson’s life - not the least of which covers his musical art and popularising the didgeridoo, performing on a world tour with Greek composer Yanni, his passion for educating people about First Nations’ culture and success in co-founding the award-winning dance troupe and Australia’s longest-running theatrical production ‘Tjapukai’.
From Campfire to Stage Light will be performed from Thursday, July 7 to Saturday, July 16 2022, at Bulmba-ja Theatre, 96 Abbott St, Cairns City.
Tickets are on sale now at www.eventbrite.com.au
