Perth Voice Interactive

MUSIC and the spokenword collide in a colourful celebration of African culture at the Blue Room Theatre this month.

An Evening of African Poetry and Storytelling is no dull recital and includes lively percussion, captivating visuals, rapping and a large multi-talented cast of performers and narrators.

Ostensibly a lot of fun, the show subtly explores the themes of migration, identity and segregation.

The African diaspora is an issue close to the heart of Lisa Watson, the show’s creative producer.

She left Cape Town at a young age and grew up in Auckland before moving to Perth.

This shaped Watson’s perspective, teaching her to appreciate diversity in art, food and culture, and helping her find her own sense of identity.

In 2021 she joined the Multicultural Advisory Group for the City of Armadale, and has been heavily involved in creating Afro-centric shows and events such as Jaiye Jaiye and Afro Block Party.

She also co-founded Our Collective Dream, a social enterprise to entertain, educate and uplift the black, indigenous and other people of colour community (BIPOC).

If you’re wondering whose behind the infectious, rollicking percussion in the show, then say hello to Tao Issaro – an Indian/Australian multi-instrumentalist, composer and sound designer.

He’s collaborated with renowned artists and groups including Lucky Oceans, Praashekh Borkar, George Brooks and Ranjit Barot, and has toured the world playing esteemed venues like the Royal Albert Hall and the John F Kennedy Centre for Performing Arts.

Issaro’s also been a sound designer for various theatre companies, and since 2020 has been releasing original music online.

Another interesting member of the show is storyteller Veronikka Habieb, a Perth-born indigenous Egyptian who creates music and poetry. Aside from her monthly shows in Perth, Habieb holds events with food and music to connect the community, and facilitates “safe spaces” where diverse folk can meet and improve their mental health. 

And last but not least is lead performer and storyteller Nidal Saeed, a young Sudanese Muslim artist and poet. Inspired by dreams and her inner child, Saeed’s poetry often pays homage to her ancestors and their spiritual values.

An Evening of African Poetry and Storytelling is on until September 21 with ‘Meet the Artists’ on September 19 and a closing party on the last night.

For more details and tix see blueroom.org.au/events/african-poetry-storytelling.