Community
17 April, 2022
SHARING CULTURAL experiences with babies
A new program has been launched at Cairns Libraries, uniting artists and storytellers in providing interactive cultural experiences and yarns for babies and their parents/ caregivers.
Singer/songwriter Merindi Schrieber has curated the “Bulkaway Muruku” (Yarning Together) sessions.
Ms Schrieber is a multidisciplinary artist with song and stories as her strong focus, embracing language stemming from her Kuku Yalanji roots.
She has delighted audiences with her charismatic and infectious presence at festivals, events and corporate functions.
Her arts practice since 2018 has revolved around supporting “mamas and the first 1000 days” through an arts and cultural perspective.
As co-creator of Ngamumu, Ms Schrieber has launched the Bulkaway Muruku sessions to share stories and songs in a warm, gentle, explorative setting.
Supported by Cairns Regional Council and the State Library of Queensland, the program will be delivered through the First 5 Forever initiative at Cairns Libraries.
Targeted at children two and under and their parents/ carers, the Bulkaway Muruku program aims to share stories in an interactive setting that encourages self-exploration through spirit, music and song.
“Bulkaway Muruku is all about bringing the stories to life through song, allowing audiences to participate in light, natural and immersive story sharing, and encouraging self-musical expression,” Ms Schrieber said.
Along with Ms Schrieber, the program will be delivered by harpist and composer Natalia Mann, and performer and winner of the APRA 2000 Most Performed Jazz Work, Nikki Dolls.
Ms Mann’s music is inspired by trees, animals, and her Oceanic and Celtic ancestry stories.
She has performed worldwide as an original solo artist and as a lead harpist for symphony orchestras, pop bands, world ensembles, and contemporary art performances.
Ms Dolls’ expressive voice manifests a warm rapport with her audiences, accompanied by her smooth rhythmic percussion; she has a shining performance history, including musical theatre, festival events, studio sessions and film.
Bulkaway Muruku is coming to the Earlville Library from 10am to 10.45am on April 12 and April 26, May 9 and May 23 and June 6.
