In Samoa, Australia now: Pacific edition program will open with Breath of Country, Breath of Ocean – a series of performances, workshops and cultural exchange led by internationally acclaimed First Nations musician William Barton in partnership with Tiapapata Art Centre from 21 July to 1 August 2026.

William Barton is an internationally-acclaimed musician and cultural ambassador. A virtuoso didgeridoo player, composer, vocalist and educator, he has performed with many of the world’s leading orchestras and ensembles while remaining deeply connected to the traditions and stories of his Kalkadunga heritage in north-west Queensland.

Mr Barton will travel to Samoa with his mother, respected Elder, artist and storyteller Aunty Delmae Barton and Samoan-Australian musician Isaiah B. Brunt. Through music, storytelling, visual arts and community engagement, the visiting artists will work alongside Samoan musicians, artists, students and cultural practitioners to explore the shared importance of oral traditions, ancestral knowledge, place, identity and the transmission of culture across generations.

The program will include collaborative rehearsals with Samoan musicians, storytelling and visual arts workshops led by Aunty Delmae Barton, educational activities with young people, community engagement, cultural visits to significant heritage sites and two public performances. A highlight of the visit will be a free public concert on Thursday 30 July, 6:30pm at the Samoa Culture and Arts Centre.

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Tiapapata Art Centre