In 1916, activist James Arden made a stand for Gunditjmara people against the missionaries and the station manager who controlled their movement. His story is a tale of identity, friendship, repatriation, racism, freedom and fighting for your rights.
Now, David Arden, the renowned co-founder and co-musical director of The Black Arm Band, shares the story of his life, his Great Grandfather and the Gunditjmara People in a powerful piece of truth-telling and intimately personal theatre.
Developed in collaboration with the Wilin Centre and the Faculty of Fine Arts and Music, MEERTA returns to the University of Melbourne for a special concert production featuring performances and animations by past and present students alongside David Arden and his band.
Book now to secure a free ticket to this one-off presentation of David Arden’s captivating musical journey.
Event Details:
Dates: 15 Feb, 2025 3pm - 4.30pm
Duration: 90 minutes with no interval
Suitable for: Not specified
Location: Union Theatre - Arts and Cultural Building - The University of Melbourne - 15 Monash Road, Parkville VIC 3010
Warnings: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and all peoples should be aware that MEERTA - Rise Up! The Ballad of James Arden and the associated songs, artworks, videos & website may contain the images, voices and/or names of people who have passed away. David Arden and family has respectfully consulted widely with family and community for appropriate use of images and in some circumstances where this may not have been possible we acknowledge it can cause deep distress and sadness for family members, extended family members, communities and peoples associated with the deceased. Upon request we will respectfully remove any images that may cause any individual family or community member distress or discomfort.
Acessibility: Infared Hearing Assist System and Wheelchair accessible.