Kristal West is proud Piadram, Manbarra, Palawa and Nywagi songstress and granddaughter of legendary First Nations’ land rights activist, Dr. Eddie Koiki Mabo, who eventually had the legal doctrine of terra nullius overturned and Dr. Bonita Mabo AO, a staunch black rights activist. In this concert, Kristal pays tribute to her late grandparents and sings to their fight for black rights and their pride for language, culture and identity.

The songs and stories she performs also speak directly of the emotional connections of family and community, with deeply personal reflections on her family connections to Mer Island in the Torres Strait, on the quest for identity –and its challenges– in an urban environment, and advocate for a walk toward renewed reconciliation, with pride in the strong, rich culture and communities she has her roots in.

Writing and singing in Meriam Mir and Torres Strait Island Creole as well as English, Kristal’s music tells stories of her upbringing, the Mabo court case, learning about her country and storylines, and the importance of culture, language and identity as a First Nations’ person.

“I write music drawing inspiration from my bloodlines, First Nations’ history, community and our continued journey towards Reconciliation.”

Presented in partnership with Studio 188.

About BEMAC Unplugged

BEMAC Unplugged is a series of shows that recreate the intimate vibe of BEMAC’s shows at Yungaba, showcasing diverse talent and inviting cross-cultural collaboration. For more information about BEMAC’s program of upcoming events, visit bemac.org.au/season/

Mixtape Sessions are nights at Studio 188 that are curated by independent music labels, performers and producers.

7:30pm, Saturday, July 13
Studio 188
188 Brisbane Street, Ipswich
Tickets $25: events.humanitix.com/bemac-unplugged-mixtape-sessions-kristal-west-tribute-to-dr-eddie-and-dr-bonita-mabo/tickets
More info: bemac.org.au