The Little Big Bang - Mullumbimby

AFRICA MEETS JAPAN - Mini Fest

Mullumbimby Civic Memorial Hall

Saturday July 5th

2 - 9 pm

A wonderful day of community: free workshops and performances in the African and Japanese cultural art forms of drumming and dance.

Collaborative brilliance of Byron Taiko, Spankinhide and Zormiwasa, bringing together two epic rhythmic cultures - AFRICA & JAPAN.

Featuring:

SPANKINHIDE

Led by highly respected djembe player, teacher and maker, Elliott Orr, Spankinhide has become a much sought-after African rhythm collective, with active members in South East Qld and Northern NSW. Drawing their repertoire from both traditional and contemporary sources, Spankinhide brings a dynamic but decidedly danceable set of rhythms and songs that transform their audience from wide-eyed spectators into a heaving, primal, spontaneous dance floor of wildness!

Having played headline shows at the Woodford Folk and Island Vibe festivals, Spankinhide continues their legacy of delivering world class performances. The members of Spankinhide are successful musicians in their own right, including the likes of Elliott Orr, Guy Anderton, Peter Teys and Sam Stanley.

The very existence of Spankinhide is to fuel the fire of dance. Rich rhythms, driving doundoun melodies, crack and boom to fill the room! If you find you're not dancing, it might be wise to check your pulse - you may be dead!!!

BYRON TAIKO

Based in the 'drummers paradise' of Byron Bay, this is a big ensemble of up to 15 people, playing Japanese taiko drums.

Taiko drumming is a form of music that combines rhythm, movement and spirit that has been embedded into Japanese life for thousands of years. It is a form of energetic physical exercise for the discipline of both body and mind that translates to a healthy lifestyle.

Founded in 2012 by husband and wife Hiro & Mayu Akiba, Byron Taiko brings this integral aspect of Japanese culture to you. They specialise in weekly taiko workshops at Byron Bay Youth Centre for people of all ages and abilities, to share Japanese experiences and promote a greater understanding of cultural diversity. Byron Taiko organises the annual Byron Japanese Festival and holds regular school visits to local primary and high schools.

SALVE JORGE

Having just returned from an adventure to Japan himself, Jorge Patrocinio aka Salve Jorge, is excited to find the perfect soundscape to hold this event in flow. Drawing from his own Brazilian ancestry and bringing together influences of the African continent and the islands of Japan we are in for a sonic treat.

ZORMIWASA (meaning "come play music")

EPIC!! No other word quite covers this incredible performance. Under the tutelage of Elliott Orr, some 30 beautiful humans have been learning Balakulania, a traditional Guinean Earth rhythm, and Kadan, another traditional Guinean Water rhythm, complete with extensive solo phrases and a song! From complete beginners to Elliott's most dedicated students, some of whom have been studying with him and belonging to this community for 5, 10, 15, even 20 years, Zormiwasa willl blow your mind and hearts right open!

Byron Taiko will perform in collaboration with Spankinhide - playing Zaouli and Megaru.

And under the direction of Elliott Orr, Byron Taiko will join Zormiwasa in performing the 6/8 Kadan piece. This epic collaboration will involve well over 50 people, bringing heart and soul, to the stage for your wonderment. Lift your jaw from the floor, feel the heat of the beat and join us in celebrating the incredible music and culture of Africa and Japan.

This is the very essence of community! Many beautiful souls bringing their love of rhythm and dance into a collective moment of connection and expression.

Come early to witness this true magic!

Or come even earlier and participate in the workshops and kids play area.

MULLUMBIMBY CIVIC MEMORIAL HALL

55 Dalley St

Mullumbimby

BYO

Doors open 2 pm and the music finishes at 9 pm.

Tix through Humanitix where all profits go to humanitarian projects.

First Release $20

(until sold out)

Presale $35

On the door $45

Concession $35

Kids 10 - 17 yo $10

Under 10 - free