DEM MOB set to bring APY Lands music to 'Wonderverse' during University of Adelaide's 150th celebration

Joseph Guenzler
Joseph Guenzler Published September 3, 2024 at 11.30am (AWST)

Music by Aboriginal hip-hop group DEM MOB's Elisha Umuhuri is set to feature in the University of Adelaide's 150th year 'Wonderverse' celebrations.

An art experience developed with Patch Theatre, the initiative aims to ignite imaginations and foster a lifelong love of the arts in children and their families.

In October, Wonderverse will transform the University of Adelaide's Bonython Hall into a wonderland at its North Terrace campus.

Visitors can explore vibrant lighting installations, Umuhuri's music and create their own musical pieces in interactive spaces.

Mr Umuhuri, a student at the University's Centre of Aboriginal Studies in Music (CASM), has brought his unique musical perspective to the project.

Reflecting on the opportunity to bring his music from the APY lands to Wonderverse, he said it's been "like a roller coaster in a way".

"Every step has been a new experience, I've enjoyed every second and every part of this opportunity," he said.

"Coming from a school community, it's been a blessing."

Audiences will have the opportunity to design a sound and light show with powerful torches, relax under a celestial sky, and control a forest of colourful light beams.

Each room in Wonderverse provides a hands-on experience to explore the wonders of light and sound.

The performance includes original music by Mr Umuhuri and his group DEM MOB, known for being the first rappers to perform and record in the Pitjantjatjara language.

Lights, beats, dreams: an immersive adventure by Patch Theatre. (Image: Supplied)

"We put a little bit of language into the show," Mr Umuhuri said, emphasising the importance of sharing cultural heritage through his music.

"It's important to raise awareness and make opportunities for mob at home."

Mr Umuhuri hopes young audiences will appreciate the experience and understand the significance of DEM MOB sharing their culture.

"You get back what you put into your work," he said.

As a CASM student, Mr Umuhuri has found the program's influence on his music significant.

"CASM has had a massive impact on my music," he said.

"The way they've taught us the theory and songwriting side of music has been really good."

Wonderverse also features Edgell Junior Edgell, a Ni-Vanuatu actor and storyteller, along with Australian Filipinx actor, singer, and puppeteer Ezra Juanta.

More than 2,000 South Australian students will attend the show at no cost.

Wonderverse opens at the University of Adelaide on Thursday 10 October, running until Sunday, 20 October.

Tickets are available now.

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National Indigenous Times

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