Custodians of the Sky

Custodians of the Sky is a new Australian work that invites audiences to journey among the heavens and the earth, exploring our shared imaginings of the universe through the power of music and poetry.

At Emanuel Synagogue, this production takes on special resonance. Honouring the Jewish tradition of contemplating our place in creation, the work invites reflection on the land, the stars, and our enduring connection to the wonders above. Through music, poetry, and soundscapes from Australian stargazing sites, Custodians of the Sky celebrates how different cultures—including the Jewish tradition—interpret the mysteries of the cosmos and seek meaning under the night sky.

Commissioned by Le Balcon, France’s celebrated contemporary ensemble, alongside Australian singers Michael Smallwood (tenor) and Adrian Tamburini (baritone), the piece premiered in Paris and now comes to Sydney for its Australian premiere at Emanuel Synagogue. The performance features a chamber ensemble and electronics crafted from Australian field recordings, blending voices, instrumentation, and sounds of the land.

The text is drawn from living Australian writers and framed by the writings of Indigenous astronomer Bill Yidumduma Harney and Hugh Cairns (Dark Sparklers), alongside five contemporary poems transformed into song:

• Stars by David Malouf

• Skywatchers by Margaret Bradstock

• Perspective Passes Over Us by Renée Pettitt-Schipp

• Moon by A. Frances Johnson

• The Moon via Telescope by Margaret Bradstock

As we gather beneath the same sky, Custodians of the Sky offers a poetic invitation to explore the interplay between tradition, land, and the infinite heavens—a reflection deeply meaningful for the Jewish community and all who seek connection through art and story.

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