Doors 6pm
Show 7pm
PERTH INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL AT THE ELLINGTON
The Ellington is proud to present an intimate evening of acoustic, original music from three extraordinary First Nations artists. This special event brings together the soul-stirring melodies of Gina Williams and Guy Ghouse, an award-winning duo renowned for their dedication to preserving the endangered Noongar language through song, and BOOX Kid, a rising star with deep Noongar roots and a fresh, contemporary sound.
1st Set – BOOX Kid
Walyalaup/Fremantle singer songwriter, producer, Boox Kid is a proud Noongar man delivering unique electro singer songwriter pop. A cross genre performer, Boox Kid recently starred as Wundig in the West Australian Opera’s production of Wundig Wer Wilura for Perth Festival 2024. Boox Kid’s talents were utilised in the City of Perth ad campaign and TourismWA most recent advertisement with Daniel Ricciardo.
Performances include WAMfest 2023, Nannup Music Fest 2023, BIGSOUND 2023, opening support for George Ezra at Kings Park, opening for Rockwiz and the Hoodoo Gurus, Perth Bluesfest 2023, Dark Sky Festival 2023 support for Jen Cloher in May 2023 and more recently, support for Ian Moss, Katy Steele and Ash Grunwald.
2nd Set – Gina Williams and Guy Ghouse
Gina and Guy have been named Indigenous Artist of the Year at the 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2018 and 2022 WA Music Industry Awards. These exceptional performers connect and capture audiences all over the world through the power of song. It’s made even more special when it’s sung in rare Noongar language. Gina Williams and Guy Ghouse bring a fresh, modern take on ancient traditions; merging evocative sounds, natural acoustic instruments, poignant stories with that incredible, beautiful voice.
Gina is a Balladong (Noongar) daughter, covering the south west corner of Western Australia. She has connection to the Kija people of the East Kimberley through her grandmother’s line. By official records, Noongar language is critically endangered, with only a few speakers left.
As well as four albums, they have released three major works; Koort for the Festival of Perth, Koorlangka: Reimagined for the inaugural Perth International Cabaret Festival and Koolbardi wer Wardong for a sell-out season for the West Australian Opera. In February 2024 they premiered their most recent major work, Wundig wer Wilura, commissioned by the West Australian Opera, at the Festival of Perth.
Currently they are working on the third instalment of their Kalyakoorl song cycle, Moort, to be released in 2025. 2024 has also included the first sighting (Awesome Festival – September) of Aliwah Bardinar! a work for young people, and a tour of the the UK including performances and a major workshop with local Cardiff youth for the Llais Festival.
Performing with the all-important blessings of Gina’s elders and community, this duo will leave you breathless!
This will be a beautiful evening of calm and reflection during a busy festival.
