‘Conjure’ was developed from May-October and performed at the Northcote Town Hall on 16th, 17th, 18th October as part of the Melbourne Fringe Festival. Rehearsals and creative sessions with groups and crews of participants were held on a weekly basis on schools and community venues and then coupled with regular large combined rehearsals with the whole ensemble held in council partner town halls. Over 200 youth participated in ‘Conjure’ in art forms as diverse as live instrumental (in genres such as hardcore, urban hip hop, roots and acoustic), screen printing, sound design, acting, belly dance, Krump, traditional Samoan dance, break dance, hiphop, Bollywood, video design and projection. The show was a sell out season with over 1000 people attending over three nights. The feedback from participants, partners, families and audience has been extremely positive.

Response from some members of our audience:

“I am the Sexual & Reproductive Health Clinical Nurse Consultant based at Barwon Health Jigsaw. I attended the Sunday evening show of Conjure with my 3 younger children & another work colleague. I have previously viewed taped shows that the young people have put on, but actually seeing it ‘live’ was a completely different experience. To witness the hype, feel the vibe, watch the young people beam with enthusiasm & be so proud of not only what they are doing individually, but of one another, from all walks of life was truely something to behold. To also feel the excitement of the audience & see the smiles on families faces just projected exactly what it means for the young people to work with the team of A.R.A.B.

It showed that working together, learning together, supporting one another across all cultures, all perceived barriers is absolutely possible.

We look forward to the next show!”

Cheers,

Rochelle Hamilton

Sexual & Reproductive Health

Clinical Nurse Consultant

Thank you for such an uplifting, enjoyable evening! This was not one of those ‘enjoy today, forget tomorrow’ scenarios. I actually could not sleep because I was so energized by you. You have to understand I’m 52 years old with teenagers of my own, so I’m used to being sleepless, but not from such positive energy. Congratulations for one of the best models of true inclusion ever shown in the capital city of inclusion! The story was hopeful and inspiring — if the young people of today understand resilience on this level, the future will be brilliant.”

Sincerely,

Paula Jorgensen

Community Development Programs Coordinator

Moreland City Council

“I was very impressed about how inclusive it was and how the kids all encourage others of all skill levels! I thought it was really heart warming.” Chris Davis Chris Davis Vichealth

“I’ve seen each of  the wild and wonderful shows produced by ARAB and always come away feeling  elated. This last show, “Conjure” was as exhilarating as the others. The life force of these shows is undeniable. The sense of ownership from both  participants and audience is extraordinary to witness. The audience at times roar with identification and pleasure. “Conjure” is slick and tight and visually beautiful. The young people are skilled and confident. The exciting anarchic feel is still there but the performance elements feel more controlled. The question of race is in your face in these performances.  Where else do you see the community truly reflected on the stage? The experience is vibrant and powerful and the work gets better and better.”

Patricia Cornelius

Conjure audience member and award winning playwright

To the A.R.A.B Team

I wanted to let you know that I saw Conjure with my 12 year old daughter and her friend and was so impressed with the energy, commitment and talent of the cast, the enormous scale of the production and the boisterous appreciation of the audience. When we arrived and entered the hall, the girls left me for dead – not wanting to sit in the bleachers, but rather made their way right down the front to sit on the floor. Close to the action. They were spellbound the entire show and talked and giggled about various bit of the show all the way home (a good 45 min drive).

The range of artforms and cultural representation was inspiring and entertaining. There are also a couple of performers I’m keeping my eye out for in the years to come. I also thought the club aspect after the show was a great move, creating a real hub and a kicking vibe.

I really meant to send you an email a while back, but the following Wednesday we were on a plane to China for two weeks.

Thanks for a great show and I wish the project all the very best.

Susan Strano
Manager of Creative Communities, Regional Arts Victoria