MEERTA - Rise Up! The Ballad of James Arden

In 1916, activist James Arden made a stand for Gunditjmara people against the missionaries and the station manager who controlled their movement. His story is a tale of identity, friendship, repatriation, racism, freedom and fighting for your rights.

Now, David Arden, the renowned co-founder and co-musical director of The Black Arm Band, shares the story of his life, his Great Grandfather and the Gunditjmara People in a powerful piece of truth-telling and intimately personal theatre.

Developed in collaboration with the Wilin Centre and the Faculty of Fine Arts and Music, MEERTA returns to the University of Melbourne for a special concert production featuring performances and animations by past and present students alongside David Arden and his band.

Book now to secure a free ticket to this one-off presentation of David Arden’s captivating musical journey.

MEERTA is supported by the City of Melbourne Arts Grants and the Victorian Government through Creative Victoria. Originally commissioned by YIRRAMBOI.