An award-winning contemporary performance piece is on its way to Bunjil Place next month, aiming to bring awareness to gendered violence.
The Durga Chronicles will be held at Bunjil Place on Saturday 7 October and Sunday 8 October, with the perfomances running from 5pm to 5.50pm and then followed by ‘circles of conversation’ from 6pm to 7.30pm.
Premiering at Melbourne’s Arts House in 2022 with support from Australia Council, Multicultural Arts Victoria and Abbotsford Convent, it received three Green Room Award nominations in 2022 for Outstanding Creation, Best Visual Design and Breaking Ground and was the winner of the Breaking Ground award in 2023.
Produced by Priya Srinivasan, the performance brings together international collaborators and local artists who form the incredible Keerthana Women’s Choir.
The performance uses music, dance and stunning visuals, along with a Carnatic choir of 12 women, to create a harrowing and moving storytelling experience.
In Hindu mythology, Durga is the goddess of protection, motherhood and war.
The Durga Chronicles draws on the stories of women who have been harmed in different parts of the world and harnesses the force of Durga to provoke empowered resistance against gendered violence.
As part of the Safe and Equal Casey strategic plan, Casey Council is aiming to ensure women and gender-diverse people are heard and have the opportunity to influence decisions which affect their lives.
Casey Council administrators chair Noelene Duff PSM said she was proud to have Bunjil Place hosting this event.
“We know that The City of Casey has the highest number of reported family violence incidents* in Victoria; and international and Australian research shows that violence against women is driven by gender inequality,” she said.
“The Durga Chronicles is a unique performance that will no doubt help us increase awareness of gendered violence and gender equality.”
If you need support in regard to sexual assault, domestic or family violence you can call 1800 RESPECT 1800 737 732 for 24/7 phone and online services.
The event is supported by Creative Victoria and Insite Arts.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.bunjilplace.com.au/events/durga-chronicles
