The Chan Centre for the Performing Arts has announced the first concert of mezzo-soprano Marion Newman’s guest curated series, Hasalala Danxalax: Marion Newman & Friends.

The performance celebrates music created by contemporary Indigenous composers, and sees Newman joined by soprano Melody Courage, tenor Asitha Tennekoon, and baritone Jonathon Adams, representing the Kwagiulth, Stō:lo, Cree, Métis and Sri Lankan nations.

The program will include contemporary works of Indigenous composers and librettists including Newman, Andrew Balfour, Marie Clements, Ian Cusson, Joy Harjo, Yvette Nolan, and Russell Wallace.

“This is an opportunity to make and share music of the highest quality with my chosen colleagues,” says Newman in a press release. “It is time for Indigenous classical music to be understood as equal to European music rather than a static form of the past.

"I am particularly thrilled that the audience can witness the wealth Indigenous composers and musicians have to share in-person," she adds, "As we raise our voices in story and song, I believe this will be a transformative experience for everyone both on and off the stage.”

Complementing the vocalists on stage will be flutist Jessica McMann, violinist Parmela Attariwala, and pianist Perri Lo.

Tickets for Hasalala Danxalax: Marion Newman & Friends range from $15 to $40 and you can find them here.