Browse
Streets of Your Town
Streets of Your Town
From the Wandering Journo at Stories that Matter Studios this is The Streets of Your Town. The podcast that takes you on an audio journey through theatre of the mind highlighting a different slice of Australian life each episode.
Season 4
David Hinchliffe on learning as much as you teach as an artist
We made it Streets of Your Towners - the 100th episode of the Streets of Your Town podcast!!! This episode we return to the man who so kindly kicked off this crazy Streets of Your Town adventure! The man whose storytelling is equally masterful with words or with the palette knife - who is bookending this series by featuring in episode 1 and 100. This internationally renowned artist - harking from a family of journo’s - generously started this podcast series by telling his story - from his idyllic country childhood to rebellious teen, and on to becoming Deputy Mayor of Brisbane, before rediscovering his creative talent anew. Today we re-visit David Hinchliffe in his inner Brisbane city Fortitude Valley home - to find out what’s changed for him on the street where he lives, what’s different post pandemic, and what has remained the same or even more important than before. The same themes that all of us have pondered, as we reflect on our how our lives have changed too. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
David Hinchliffe on learning as much as you teach as an artist
We made it Streets of Your Towners - the 100th episode of the Streets of Your Town podcast!!! This episode we return to the man who so kindly kicked off this crazy Streets of Your Town adventure! The man whose storytelling is equally masterful with words or with the palette knife - who is bookending this series by featuring in episode 1 and 100. This internationally renowned artist - harking from a family of journo’s - generously started this podcast series by telling his story - from his idyllic country childhood to rebellious teen, and on to becoming Deputy Mayor of Brisbane, before rediscovering his creative talent anew. Today we re-visit David Hinchliffe in his inner Brisbane city Fortitude Valley home - to find out what’s changed for him on the street where he lives, what’s different post pandemic, and what has remained the same or even more important than before. The same themes that all of us have pondered, as we reflect on our how our lives have changed too. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
23:26
EP22 - S4
30 Jun 23
Vidya Makan on her Lucky Country
Today on Streets of Your Town we’re revisiting Vidya Makan, who you may remember meeting on this podcast in December 2022 when we featured her as one of the talented performers in the smash hit touring musical Six. The show broke all attendance records at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre during its 2022 season. But this Somerville House and Queensland Conservatorium graduate has not left her run there, and has now debuted her own musical written in collaboration with Sonya Suares, at Sydney’s Hayes Theatre, again to rave reviews. The Sydney Morning Herald described Vidya as “a gifted storyteller”, and her show The Lucky Country as “remarkable” - where “national myth-making gets a well overdue shake-up”. We go backstage at the Hayes Theatre on Streets of Your Town to speak to Vidya after yet another standing ovation for The Lucky Country, and find out how this acclaimed Brisbane actor, singer and composer/lyricist came to realise a dream that she could be seen for who she truly is on stage. Get the full story, and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Vidya Makan on her Lucky Country
Today on Streets of Your Town we’re revisiting Vidya Makan, who you may remember meeting on this podcast in December 2022 when we featured her as one of the talented performers in the smash hit touring musical Six. The show broke all attendance records at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre during its 2022 season. But this Somerville House and Queensland Conservatorium graduate has not left her run there, and has now debuted her own musical written in collaboration with Sonya Suares, at Sydney’s Hayes Theatre, again to rave reviews. The Sydney Morning Herald described Vidya as “a gifted storyteller”, and her show The Lucky Country as “remarkable” - where “national myth-making gets a well overdue shake-up”. We go backstage at the Hayes Theatre on Streets of Your Town to speak to Vidya after yet another standing ovation for The Lucky Country, and find out how this acclaimed Brisbane actor, singer and composer/lyricist came to realise a dream that she could be seen for who she truly is on stage. Get the full story, and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
19:09
EP21 - S4
11 Jun 23
Matt Hsu and his Obscure Orchestra
From a shy kid on the fringes to years later bringing together an eclectic group of musicians in an orchestra bearing his name, Matt Hsu has found the power of music and passed that joy onto dozens of others. The Matt Hsu Obscure Orchestra has quickly established a following as one of Australia’s most respected ensembles, bringing together a diverse band of BIPOC, First Nations, disabled, non-binary queer and trans artists at the intersection of art and activism. Streets of Your Town takes you behind the scenes to one of the orchestra’s recent musical imaginings at the Museum of Brisbane, bringing the exhibits to life with a roving performance. The 22-piece ensemble challenges many of the assumptions around traditional orchestras, replacing pomposity with dancing the night away to a range of world instruments made out of found objects. And as the award-winning Taiwanese-Australian composer and multi-instrumentalist Matt Hsu tells us on Streets of Your Town, his otherworldly and joyful compositions aim to celebrate difference, promote inclusivity and bring together cultures. Get the full story, and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Matt Hsu and his Obscure Orchestra
From a shy kid on the fringes to years later bringing together an eclectic group of musicians in an orchestra bearing his name, Matt Hsu has found the power of music and passed that joy onto dozens of others. The Matt Hsu Obscure Orchestra has quickly established a following as one of Australia’s most respected ensembles, bringing together a diverse band of BIPOC, First Nations, disabled, non-binary queer and trans artists at the intersection of art and activism. Streets of Your Town takes you behind the scenes to one of the orchestra’s recent musical imaginings at the Museum of Brisbane, bringing the exhibits to life with a roving performance. The 22-piece ensemble challenges many of the assumptions around traditional orchestras, replacing pomposity with dancing the night away to a range of world instruments made out of found objects. And as the award-winning Taiwanese-Australian composer and multi-instrumentalist Matt Hsu tells us on Streets of Your Town, his otherworldly and joyful compositions aim to celebrate difference, promote inclusivity and bring together cultures. Get the full story, and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
14:56
EP20 - S4
3 May 23
Jane Milburn on fast fashion and Slow Clothing
This week’s Streets of Your Town takes you into the world of fast and slow fashion, and what we can all do to lessen the burden of clothes waste on the world. Have you ever looked down at what you’re wearing, or into your wardrobe, and wondered where those materials came from? Who made your outfit, and at what cost to them compared to the cost you paid for it? Or pondered what the true cost of that bargain t-shirt is when fast fashion wastage is taken into account? These questions are what drive sustainability consultant Jane Milburn on her quest to get as many people as possible thinking about the way they dress, and how to make better choices to become independent of fast fashion. She tells us on Streets of Your Town how low cost unethical clothes are creating pollution and contributing to modern day slavery, and how her recent travels for her Churchill Fellowship meeting 55 slow fashion practitioners from around the world has given her tips on how we can all play our part to reduce the burden of clothing waste on the world. Get the full story, and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jane Milburn on fast fashion and Slow Clothing
This week’s Streets of Your Town takes you into the world of fast and slow fashion, and what we can all do to lessen the burden of clothes waste on the world. Have you ever looked down at what you’re wearing, or into your wardrobe, and wondered where those materials came from? Who made your outfit, and at what cost to them compared to the cost you paid for it? Or pondered what the true cost of that bargain t-shirt is when fast fashion wastage is taken into account? These questions are what drive sustainability consultant Jane Milburn on her quest to get as many people as possible thinking about the way they dress, and how to make better choices to become independent of fast fashion. She tells us on Streets of Your Town how low cost unethical clothes are creating pollution and contributing to modern day slavery, and how her recent travels for her Churchill Fellowship meeting 55 slow fashion practitioners from around the world has given her tips on how we can all play our part to reduce the burden of clothing waste on the world. Get the full story, and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
34:48
EP19 - S4
24 Apr 23
Angus McDiarmid on living the creative life in Boonah
You never know who I am going to meet on my travels in Mildred the cantankerous kombi. In this episode of Streets of Your Town, we enter the creative wonderland of artist, teacher and jack of all trades Angus MacDiarmid. He lives in a converted church in the little town of Boonah in Queensland’s Scenic Rim. Despite its close proximity to the bustling cities of Brisbane and the Gold Coast, much of the Scenic Rim remains untouched. So if you are lucky enough to go for a road trip through this magical area, make sure you keep an eye out for Angus, and if you’re lucky, he may even paint your portrait. On this day in Boonah, I was lucky enough to cross paths with Angus at his home - a beautiful old restored church in the middle of town, that he shares with his partner Jenny. He happily tells us how he and Jenny came to settle in this quiet corner of The Scenic Rim, and create their perfect colourful creative home to pursue their lifelong love of art. Get the full story, and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Angus McDiarmid on living the creative life in Boonah
You never know who I am going to meet on my travels in Mildred the cantankerous kombi. In this episode of Streets of Your Town, we enter the creative wonderland of artist, teacher and jack of all trades Angus MacDiarmid. He lives in a converted church in the little town of Boonah in Queensland’s Scenic Rim. Despite its close proximity to the bustling cities of Brisbane and the Gold Coast, much of the Scenic Rim remains untouched. So if you are lucky enough to go for a road trip through this magical area, make sure you keep an eye out for Angus, and if you’re lucky, he may even paint your portrait. On this day in Boonah, I was lucky enough to cross paths with Angus at his home - a beautiful old restored church in the middle of town, that he shares with his partner Jenny. He happily tells us how he and Jenny came to settle in this quiet corner of The Scenic Rim, and create their perfect colourful creative home to pursue their lifelong love of art. Get the full story, and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
19:44
EP18 - S4
9 Apr 23
Julian Kuo on his many roles in Hamilton
Performing in the national spotlight is far from a passing phase for Julian Kuo - whose dedication to his craft since a young age has been rewarded with a prized place in the Australian cast of Hamilton. The multi-award winning musical by Lin-Manuel Miranda is winding up it’s Australian run with the Brisbane season ending on April 23. Before the show continues on its worldwide run, Julian reflects with us on Streets of Your Town, what it’s like to be part of a musical held in such esteem, that many of these Hamil-fans know more about the show’s intricacies than the cast. Such is the dedication of fans to the show that they have become something of a tribe - known universally as the Hamil-fam or Hamilfans. One of the many great quirks of the show is that it relies heavily on rap as well as sung lyrics to tell the story of Alexander Hamilton - one of America’s founding fathers. It also features a diverse cast from a range of cultural backgrounds. Such is the dedication of fans to the show that they have become something of a tribe - known universally as the Hamil-fam or Hamilfans. Julian has arguably one of the most difficult roles in the cast, as swing. As well as learning half a dozen parts in his role as a swing, he is also the cast representative for the worldwide Hamilton social justice initiatives Ham4Progress and the Racial Justice Taskforce - which he tells us is one of his most passionate projects as it fits so well with his sense of social justice. And as Julian explains, being such a pivotal part of giving back to the communities that both inspired Hamilton and supported its success, has been one of his greatest rewards. Get the full story, and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Julian Kuo on his many roles in Hamilton
Performing in the national spotlight is far from a passing phase for Julian Kuo - whose dedication to his craft since a young age has been rewarded with a prized place in the Australian cast of Hamilton. The multi-award winning musical by Lin-Manuel Miranda is winding up it’s Australian run with the Brisbane season ending on April 23. Before the show continues on its worldwide run, Julian reflects with us on Streets of Your Town, what it’s like to be part of a musical held in such esteem, that many of these Hamil-fans know more about the show’s intricacies than the cast. Such is the dedication of fans to the show that they have become something of a tribe - known universally as the Hamil-fam or Hamilfans. One of the many great quirks of the show is that it relies heavily on rap as well as sung lyrics to tell the story of Alexander Hamilton - one of America’s founding fathers. It also features a diverse cast from a range of cultural backgrounds. Such is the dedication of fans to the show that they have become something of a tribe - known universally as the Hamil-fam or Hamilfans. Julian has arguably one of the most difficult roles in the cast, as swing. As well as learning half a dozen parts in his role as a swing, he is also the cast representative for the worldwide Hamilton social justice initiatives Ham4Progress and the Racial Justice Taskforce - which he tells us is one of his most passionate projects as it fits so well with his sense of social justice. And as Julian explains, being such a pivotal part of giving back to the communities that both inspired Hamilton and supported its success, has been one of his greatest rewards. Get the full story, and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
20:33
EP17 - S4
3 Apr 23
Tiana Khasi on playing WOMADelaide with her Samoan and Indian heritage
It’s rare that a musician makes such a mark with her first EP that Rolling Stone US magazine raves and international world music festivals beckon for you to play. But that’s exactly what has happened for Brisbane born and Melbourne based artist Tiana Khasi, whose eloquent and distinctive music will grace the WOMADelaide stage this weekend. Her debut EP, Meghalaya – titled for Meghalaya, India, the land of the Khasi tribe whose name she proudly bears – is a testament to the power of her storytelling and ability to weave themes of family, self-empowerment and identity into the contemporary vernacular of Australian music. And as she tells us on Streets of Your Town, Tiana credits finding her voice at such a young age to her life’s journey honouring her Samoan and Indian heritage. This combination of influences makes for a unique sound that was further honed from expert teaching at Brisbane’s Conservatorium. By exploring and integrating her past, Tiana creates a new take on soulful r and b that sets her apart. Get the full story, and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tiana Khasi on playing WOMADelaide with her Samoan and Indian heritage
It’s rare that a musician makes such a mark with her first EP that Rolling Stone US magazine raves and international world music festivals beckon for you to play. But that’s exactly what has happened for Brisbane born and Melbourne based artist Tiana Khasi, whose eloquent and distinctive music will grace the WOMADelaide stage this weekend. Her debut EP, Meghalaya – titled for Meghalaya, India, the land of the Khasi tribe whose name she proudly bears – is a testament to the power of her storytelling and ability to weave themes of family, self-empowerment and identity into the contemporary vernacular of Australian music. And as she tells us on Streets of Your Town, Tiana credits finding her voice at such a young age to her life’s journey honouring her Samoan and Indian heritage. This combination of influences makes for a unique sound that was further honed from expert teaching at Brisbane’s Conservatorium. By exploring and integrating her past, Tiana creates a new take on soulful r and b that sets her apart. Get the full story, and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
28:00
EP16 - S4
10 Mar 23
Lin-Manuel Miranda on visiting The Australian cast of Hamilton
There’s not many awards he hasn’t won for his groundbreaking musical theatre work, and now Lin-Manuel Miranda has shown he keeps his promises too. The Tony, Grammy, Emmy, Olivier and Pulitzer Prize winning creator came to Brisbane this weekend, to watch the Australian company perform Hamilton - his worldwide musical juggernaut that combines jazz, hip hop, R&B and Broadway musical styles to tell the story of American founding father Alexander Hamilton. He also made a visit to the Brisbane Ludo studios where they make Bluey for a guest appearance on the Australian children’s show phenomena, and gave a press conference for selected media while in town. For the first time on Streets of Your Town, I will play the entire 20 minute press conference with Lin-Manuel Miranda, because it’s so unusual to have this sort of access to someone who is essentially musical theatre royalty with a worldwide following. To say I was excited when I got the press conference invitation with a day’s notice is an understatement. I was not throwing away my shot on this one. Lin-Manuel Miranda was delightfully frank giving insights into why he came to Australia now, and breaking down his song-writing process. While COVID threw his initial plans to visit the Australian cast into chaos, even forcing their auditions for Hamilton onto zoom, he said he could not walk away from his commitment to meet the cast and see the show as soon as he could. Get the full story, and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Lin-Manuel Miranda on visiting The Australian cast of Hamilton
There’s not many awards he hasn’t won for his groundbreaking musical theatre work, and now Lin-Manuel Miranda has shown he keeps his promises too. The Tony, Grammy, Emmy, Olivier and Pulitzer Prize winning creator came to Brisbane this weekend, to watch the Australian company perform Hamilton - his worldwide musical juggernaut that combines jazz, hip hop, R&B and Broadway musical styles to tell the story of American founding father Alexander Hamilton. He also made a visit to the Brisbane Ludo studios where they make Bluey for a guest appearance on the Australian children’s show phenomena, and gave a press conference for selected media while in town. For the first time on Streets of Your Town, I will play the entire 20 minute press conference with Lin-Manuel Miranda, because it’s so unusual to have this sort of access to someone who is essentially musical theatre royalty with a worldwide following. To say I was excited when I got the press conference invitation with a day’s notice is an understatement. I was not throwing away my shot on this one. Lin-Manuel Miranda was delightfully frank giving insights into why he came to Australia now, and breaking down his song-writing process. While COVID threw his initial plans to visit the Australian cast into chaos, even forcing their auditions for Hamilton onto zoom, he said he could not walk away from his commitment to meet the cast and see the show as soon as he could. Get the full story, and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
25:49
EP15 - S4
5 Mar 23
Jessica Watson on True Spirit - the film adaptation of her solo sail around the world
The long awaited bio-pic paying tribute to the incredible feats of Jessica Watson has finally been realised, highlighting the struggles she overcame to become the youngest person to sail solo and unassisted around the world. The movie True Spirit was mostly filmed in south-east Queensland, with Jessica Watson’s courageous feats navigating some of the world’s most challenging stretches of ocean now tapping into a worldwide audience through Netflix. Speaking to me by Zoom, Jessica Watson tells us on Streets of Your Town how the movie has taken many years of development with director Sarah Spillane and working closely with the star Teagan Croft, but she’s thrilled with the final results. Watson says she hopes now more than a decade after her amazing feat, that if another young woman wanted to do something like this, she wouldn’t have to face the same obstacles she did. Get the full story, and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jessica Watson on True Spirit - the film adaptation of her solo sail around the world
The long awaited bio-pic paying tribute to the incredible feats of Jessica Watson has finally been realised, highlighting the struggles she overcame to become the youngest person to sail solo and unassisted around the world. The movie True Spirit was mostly filmed in south-east Queensland, with Jessica Watson’s courageous feats navigating some of the world’s most challenging stretches of ocean now tapping into a worldwide audience through Netflix. Speaking to me by Zoom, Jessica Watson tells us on Streets of Your Town how the movie has taken many years of development with director Sarah Spillane and working closely with the star Teagan Croft, but she’s thrilled with the final results. Watson says she hopes now more than a decade after her amazing feat, that if another young woman wanted to do something like this, she wouldn’t have to face the same obstacles she did. Get the full story, and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
12:05
EP14 - S4
28 Feb 23
Parvyn Kaur Singh on a lifetime at the Woodford Folk Festival and her debut album Sa
This episode of Streets of Your Town comes to you (again!) from the streets of the Woodford Folk Festival, where the sublime singing of Punjabi Australian singer and dancer Parvyn Kaur Singh drew me into her orbit. As it turns out Parvyn had just completed a cross country adventure from her South Australian home, bringing all her family up in her Subaru wagon so she could perform at the Festival. She brought her new solo expression to Woodford audiences for the first time, synthesising a lifetime of dance and song into into her debut record ‘Sa’. Her eclectic influences range from electronica and jazz to her background in Sikh devotional music and her training in Indian classical music and dance. But while Parvyn was one of the farthest flung artists performing at this year’s festival, she’s actually also one of the longest participating - having come to the Woodford Folk Festival since she was a child. As Parvyn says - she’s been coming to Woodford before it was known as Woodford. And as she tells us on Streets of Your Town, Parvyn feels grateful to be giving back to the Woodford Folk Festival post pandemic, just as her solo career is taking off, having been featured in Rolling Stone India. Get the full story, and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Parvyn Kaur Singh on a lifetime at the Woodford Folk Festival and her debut album Sa
This episode of Streets of Your Town comes to you (again!) from the streets of the Woodford Folk Festival, where the sublime singing of Punjabi Australian singer and dancer Parvyn Kaur Singh drew me into her orbit. As it turns out Parvyn had just completed a cross country adventure from her South Australian home, bringing all her family up in her Subaru wagon so she could perform at the Festival. She brought her new solo expression to Woodford audiences for the first time, synthesising a lifetime of dance and song into into her debut record ‘Sa’. Her eclectic influences range from electronica and jazz to her background in Sikh devotional music and her training in Indian classical music and dance. But while Parvyn was one of the farthest flung artists performing at this year’s festival, she’s actually also one of the longest participating - having come to the Woodford Folk Festival since she was a child. As Parvyn says - she’s been coming to Woodford before it was known as Woodford. And as she tells us on Streets of Your Town, Parvyn feels grateful to be giving back to the Woodford Folk Festival post pandemic, just as her solo career is taking off, having been featured in Rolling Stone India. Get the full story, and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
18:51
EP13 - S4
6 Feb 23
Callan Purcell on bringing First Nations perspectives to his role in Hamilton
Callan Purcell is taking on one of the most renowned roles in musical theatre - Aaron Burr - in the Brisbane season of the Australian production of the worldwide phenomenon that is Hamilton. Aaron Burr is Hamilton’s nemesis in the show, and this young Indigenous performer tells me on Streets of Your Town how he is rising to the challenge of fleshing out this pivotal character. He has shown his performing chops in the show for the past two years in a range of understudy and swing roles in Hamilton, overcoming covid disruptions to show his ability and now be given the responsibility of lead. It’s a story that’s come full circle for Callan, showing his determination to succeed right from when he first got standing room only tickets to see Hamilton on Broadway, and came out buzzing with the belief that he would one day perform in the musical. He even has the ticket from the show, with the promise he made to himself written on the back to prove it. Let’s sit down for a chat with this incredible performer. Get the full story, and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Callan Purcell on bringing First Nations perspectives to his role in Hamilton
Callan Purcell is taking on one of the most renowned roles in musical theatre - Aaron Burr - in the Brisbane season of the Australian production of the worldwide phenomenon that is Hamilton. Aaron Burr is Hamilton’s nemesis in the show, and this young Indigenous performer tells me on Streets of Your Town how he is rising to the challenge of fleshing out this pivotal character. He has shown his performing chops in the show for the past two years in a range of understudy and swing roles in Hamilton, overcoming covid disruptions to show his ability and now be given the responsibility of lead. It’s a story that’s come full circle for Callan, showing his determination to succeed right from when he first got standing room only tickets to see Hamilton on Broadway, and came out buzzing with the belief that he would one day perform in the musical. He even has the ticket from the show, with the promise he made to himself written on the back to prove it. Let’s sit down for a chat with this incredible performer. Get the full story, and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
18:07
EP12 - S4
29 Jan 23
The Moving Stills at Woodford Folk Festival
This episode of Streets of Your Town comes to you from the streets of the renowned Woodford Folk Festival, an annual gathering in the week leading up to New Years Day that transforms this peaceful rural idyll into a thriving community of more than 130 thousand people, larger than the nearest Sunshine Coast town of Nambour. As I wandered through the many stages on this land now known as Woodfordia, which was purchased almost 30 years ago to give the festival a secure and ongoing home, there was one band that stood out and beckoned me into the Pineapple Lounge. They are The Moving Stills. And as The Moving Stills vocalist and guitarist Tom Mahler tells us on Streets of Your Town, their dedication to getting to their next gig from their Central Coast base knows no bounds - hitting the road through 2023 as part of their Volcano tour as well as promoting their new album coming out in August. Get the full story, and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Moving Stills at Woodford Folk Festival
This episode of Streets of Your Town comes to you from the streets of the renowned Woodford Folk Festival, an annual gathering in the week leading up to New Years Day that transforms this peaceful rural idyll into a thriving community of more than 130 thousand people, larger than the nearest Sunshine Coast town of Nambour. As I wandered through the many stages on this land now known as Woodfordia, which was purchased almost 30 years ago to give the festival a secure and ongoing home, there was one band that stood out and beckoned me into the Pineapple Lounge. They are The Moving Stills. And as The Moving Stills vocalist and guitarist Tom Mahler tells us on Streets of Your Town, their dedication to getting to their next gig from their Central Coast base knows no bounds - hitting the road through 2023 as part of their Volcano tour as well as promoting their new album coming out in August. Get the full story, and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
17:17
EP11 - S4
19 Jan 23
Vidya Makan on the joys of musical theatre for all
Performing in Six the Musical’s Australian tour is the culmination of a lifelong journey for Queensland Conservatorium graduate Vidya Makan, and the realisation of a dream that she could be accepted for her true self on stage. The critically acclaimed Brisbane actor, singer and composer/lyricist has forged her way quickly into the ultra competitive world of musical theatre not only as a performer, but also as a writer, winning awards for two musicals of her own creation now in development, one of which is slated to debut in Sydney’s Hayes Theatre in May next year. She stars as Catherine Parr in Six the Musical, and as she tells us on Streets of Your Town, it’s a show close to her heart. Get the full story, and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.com Watch and listen to Vidya Makan's song I Need You To See Me which she mentions in this interview, on Youtube at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=99WPIneNxG0See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Vidya Makan on the joys of musical theatre for all
Performing in Six the Musical’s Australian tour is the culmination of a lifelong journey for Queensland Conservatorium graduate Vidya Makan, and the realisation of a dream that she could be accepted for her true self on stage. The critically acclaimed Brisbane actor, singer and composer/lyricist has forged her way quickly into the ultra competitive world of musical theatre not only as a performer, but also as a writer, winning awards for two musicals of her own creation now in development, one of which is slated to debut in Sydney’s Hayes Theatre in May next year. She stars as Catherine Parr in Six the Musical, and as she tells us on Streets of Your Town, it’s a show close to her heart. Get the full story, and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.com Watch and listen to Vidya Makan's song I Need You To See Me which she mentions in this interview, on Youtube at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=99WPIneNxG0See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
18:57
EP10 - S4
28 Dec 22
Marcia Hines on the thrill of performing live
In this week’s Streets of Your Town podcast I speak to an Australian treasure. The thrill of performing has never left Marcia Hines, not since she started singing in her church choir as a child in Boston more than 60 years ago. She first moved to Australia from Boston to Sydney at just 16 years old, to star in the Australian production of Hair. Since then, she’s become one of Australia’s most beloved musical treasures, with a career spanning more than five decades, 22 albums, and countless chart topping singles and multi-platinum records globally. In fact her need to connect with live audiences, has only grown stronger after the limitations of the pandemic. "To be honest, Nance, it's just good for the business to be getting back on its feet, my business, my industry,” she says. “It feels like we're coming home. And after what we've all gone through in the last few years, I'll have to say now, we need some joy, and that's what performers really like bringing to the table, joy.” Marcia is an inspiration to women and Australians everywhere, constantly reinventing herself and setting industry benchmarks. And as she tells us on Streets of Your Town, her urge to perform on stage is rebuilding anew as she starts the national tour of her latest show Velvet Rewired, which kicks off its run at a the Wynnum Fringe this week. Vidya's song I need you to see me can be seen on Youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=99WPIneNxG0 Get the full story, and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Marcia Hines on the thrill of performing live
In this week’s Streets of Your Town podcast I speak to an Australian treasure. The thrill of performing has never left Marcia Hines, not since she started singing in her church choir as a child in Boston more than 60 years ago. She first moved to Australia from Boston to Sydney at just 16 years old, to star in the Australian production of Hair. Since then, she’s become one of Australia’s most beloved musical treasures, with a career spanning more than five decades, 22 albums, and countless chart topping singles and multi-platinum records globally. In fact her need to connect with live audiences, has only grown stronger after the limitations of the pandemic. "To be honest, Nance, it's just good for the business to be getting back on its feet, my business, my industry,” she says. “It feels like we're coming home. And after what we've all gone through in the last few years, I'll have to say now, we need some joy, and that's what performers really like bringing to the table, joy.” Marcia is an inspiration to women and Australians everywhere, constantly reinventing herself and setting industry benchmarks. And as she tells us on Streets of Your Town, her urge to perform on stage is rebuilding anew as she starts the national tour of her latest show Velvet Rewired, which kicks off its run at a the Wynnum Fringe this week. Vidya's song I need you to see me can be seen on Youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=99WPIneNxG0 Get the full story, and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
13:13
EP09 - S4
17 Nov 22
Erick Regnard on the wonders of underwater photography
Sometimes you meet someone whose dedication to their craft is so meticulous and thorough, you just have to find out what drives their passion. So it was with international award winning photographer Erick Regnard. He and his twin brother Ian have travelled the world doing high-end art and advertising photography. They heard about the wonders of underwater photography in Niue, a tiny island off Tonga, with water so clear it was like being suspended in space. And so they designed their underwater polaroid camera and housing, and after many months of planning took off on their adventure. In a true twist of fate they went searching for whales but instead came back with astounding underwater photos featuring a female model that make you question the laws of physics. These photos have won awards from all around the world, and are now on display in a special exhibition called Floating Bits, in Brisbane’s Maud Street Photo Gallery. Erick tells us in this episode of Streets of Your Town, what keeps driving his creative quest, after decades of taking astounding photos all around the world. Get the full story, see more of Erick's incredible photos, and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Erick Regnard on the wonders of underwater photography
Sometimes you meet someone whose dedication to their craft is so meticulous and thorough, you just have to find out what drives their passion. So it was with international award winning photographer Erick Regnard. He and his twin brother Ian have travelled the world doing high-end art and advertising photography. They heard about the wonders of underwater photography in Niue, a tiny island off Tonga, with water so clear it was like being suspended in space. And so they designed their underwater polaroid camera and housing, and after many months of planning took off on their adventure. In a true twist of fate they went searching for whales but instead came back with astounding underwater photos featuring a female model that make you question the laws of physics. These photos have won awards from all around the world, and are now on display in a special exhibition called Floating Bits, in Brisbane’s Maud Street Photo Gallery. Erick tells us in this episode of Streets of Your Town, what keeps driving his creative quest, after decades of taking astounding photos all around the world. Get the full story, see more of Erick's incredible photos, and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
21:57
EP08 - S4
11 Nov 22
Kenneth McLean on the recognition of thousands of years of First Nations oral history from Jiigurru (Lizard Island)
This episode of Streets of Your Town is a story of hope and reconciliation, through science. The people of the Torres Strait Islands in far north Queensland have known for thousands upon thousand of years how their people have journeyed far across the Coral Sea, and now - finally - that First Nations knowledge is being more widely recognised. The Queensland Museum exhibition Connections Across the Coral Sea: A Story of Movement, brings together First Nations knowledge with archaeological research, showcasing for the first time a part of Queensland history that has not been previously acknowledged. It shows how extensive international trade and relationships between ancient seafaring cultures of southern New Guinea, Torres Strait and the northeast coast of Queensland went back thousands of years, much further than science traditionally gave credence to. I was lucky enough to interview a traditional owner whose expertise was pivotal in bringing this exhibition together, Dingaal spokesman Kenneth McLean, who explains how significant it is to have their extensive history given the platform it deserves. I also spoke to one of the key archaeologists involved in this research, Professor of Indigenous Archaeology Ian McNiven from Monash University. He says this exhibition is a pivotal development in science finally recognising the oral history of this region that has been handed down through hundreds of generations, giving it the scientific respect it has long deserved. Get the full story and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Kenneth McLean on the recognition of thousands of years of First Nations oral history from Jiigurru (Lizard Island)
This episode of Streets of Your Town is a story of hope and reconciliation, through science. The people of the Torres Strait Islands in far north Queensland have known for thousands upon thousand of years how their people have journeyed far across the Coral Sea, and now - finally - that First Nations knowledge is being more widely recognised. The Queensland Museum exhibition Connections Across the Coral Sea: A Story of Movement, brings together First Nations knowledge with archaeological research, showcasing for the first time a part of Queensland history that has not been previously acknowledged. It shows how extensive international trade and relationships between ancient seafaring cultures of southern New Guinea, Torres Strait and the northeast coast of Queensland went back thousands of years, much further than science traditionally gave credence to. I was lucky enough to interview a traditional owner whose expertise was pivotal in bringing this exhibition together, Dingaal spokesman Kenneth McLean, who explains how significant it is to have their extensive history given the platform it deserves. I also spoke to one of the key archaeologists involved in this research, Professor of Indigenous Archaeology Ian McNiven from Monash University. He says this exhibition is a pivotal development in science finally recognising the oral history of this region that has been handed down through hundreds of generations, giving it the scientific respect it has long deserved. Get the full story and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
17:47
EP07 - S4
11 Oct 22
Umberto Clerici on bringing orchestral music to the people
It’s not often you talk to someone whose love for what they do is so infectious that it draws you into their world and makes you want to be part of it. That was how I felt after speaking with Maestro Umberto Clerici - the world renowned cellist with a vision to take the music of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra to the world stage. As he tells us on this episode of Streets of Your Town, he defied the traditional route of how to become a conductor by being appointed the QSO’s Chief conductor designate, starting his three year term in January 2023. Maestro Clerici’s approach as conductor is unique, not only rising from the orchestra to conductor in a highly unusual progression, but also as he describes, taking on his conductor role like an architect - giving the vision, but making the orchestra more independent. Get the full story and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Umberto Clerici on bringing orchestral music to the people
It’s not often you talk to someone whose love for what they do is so infectious that it draws you into their world and makes you want to be part of it. That was how I felt after speaking with Maestro Umberto Clerici - the world renowned cellist with a vision to take the music of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra to the world stage. As he tells us on this episode of Streets of Your Town, he defied the traditional route of how to become a conductor by being appointed the QSO’s Chief conductor designate, starting his three year term in January 2023. Maestro Clerici’s approach as conductor is unique, not only rising from the orchestra to conductor in a highly unusual progression, but also as he describes, taking on his conductor role like an architect - giving the vision, but making the orchestra more independent. Get the full story and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
20:56
EP06 - S4
23 Jul 22
Mao's Last Dancer Li Cunxin on gratitude
Rising from impoverished beginnings in communist China, to international ballet dancer and author of best selling autobiography Mao’s Last Dancer, Li Cunxin has lived an enormous life on stages around the world. But as he tells us on this episode of Streets of Your Town, he is still full of gratitude for the opportunities he’s been able to embrace, particularly his present role as Artistic Director of Queensland Ballet, a tenure which has just been extended. Mao’s Last Dancer became an international best seller and movie, but Cunxin says the role which he is most proud of, is leading Queensland Ballet and its dancers. To celebrate his tenth year at the helm, he has personally curated a triple bill of his favourite works the company has performed. And in a wonderful confluence of historic events for his beloved Queensland company, he is also about to open its new home, fulfilling a transformation he envisioned from when he first began. Get the full story and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mao's Last Dancer Li Cunxin on gratitude
Rising from impoverished beginnings in communist China, to international ballet dancer and author of best selling autobiography Mao’s Last Dancer, Li Cunxin has lived an enormous life on stages around the world. But as he tells us on this episode of Streets of Your Town, he is still full of gratitude for the opportunities he’s been able to embrace, particularly his present role as Artistic Director of Queensland Ballet, a tenure which has just been extended. Mao’s Last Dancer became an international best seller and movie, but Cunxin says the role which he is most proud of, is leading Queensland Ballet and its dancers. To celebrate his tenth year at the helm, he has personally curated a triple bill of his favourite works the company has performed. And in a wonderful confluence of historic events for his beloved Queensland company, he is also about to open its new home, fulfilling a transformation he envisioned from when he first began. Get the full story and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
19:55
EP05 - S4
13 Jun 22
Casey Donovan on the renaissance in her musical career
Nearly two decades on from her meteoric rise to fame with her surprise Australian Idol win at just 16 years of age, Casey Donovan is enjoying a renaissance in her musical career. She’s on a national tour around Australia starring as Judy Bernly in the musical production of 9 to 5, attracting many accolades, with spontaneous standing ovations after her showstopper solo Get Out and Stay Out. And she won’t stay still once that tour’s done, going back on the road in September with a series of live and intimate shows in her solo tour dubbed BluesDay - featuring her favourite bluesy tracks. On Streets of Your Town Casey tells us how thrilled she is to be back on stage after the pandemic years, and how she can feel the excited energy from the audience from being together again as well. What I love about making audio stories like this, is you can hear the joy and the energy in their voice. I defy anyone to hear Casey’s giggle, and not get a smile on their face. Get the full story and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Casey Donovan on the renaissance in her musical career
Nearly two decades on from her meteoric rise to fame with her surprise Australian Idol win at just 16 years of age, Casey Donovan is enjoying a renaissance in her musical career. She’s on a national tour around Australia starring as Judy Bernly in the musical production of 9 to 5, attracting many accolades, with spontaneous standing ovations after her showstopper solo Get Out and Stay Out. And she won’t stay still once that tour’s done, going back on the road in September with a series of live and intimate shows in her solo tour dubbed BluesDay - featuring her favourite bluesy tracks. On Streets of Your Town Casey tells us how thrilled she is to be back on stage after the pandemic years, and how she can feel the excited energy from the audience from being together again as well. What I love about making audio stories like this, is you can hear the joy and the energy in their voice. I defy anyone to hear Casey’s giggle, and not get a smile on their face. Get the full story and join The Wandering Journo tribe at substack.soyt.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
16:30
EP04 - S4
25 May 22
Rochelle Pitt-Watson on reviving Indigenous language through song
Reviving Indigenous languages through song is the driving force for Rochelle Pitt-Watson’s music. Her Quandamooka and Meriam heritage underlie all of her songs, and she hopes that performing them brings some relief from the stresses of these post-covid times. Rochelle is one of the First Nations artists taking centre stage at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre in May for Clancestry—A Celebration of Country. She tells us on Streets of Your Town about the significance of being part of a festival that showcases and celebrates First Nations artists, on land that for thousands of years has been a meeting and cultural place for Indigenous people of this land next to the Brisbane River, or Maiwar. Join the Wandering Journo tribe to see more details on this episode of Streets of Your Town and the back catalogue at soyt.substack.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rochelle Pitt-Watson on reviving Indigenous language through song
Reviving Indigenous languages through song is the driving force for Rochelle Pitt-Watson’s music. Her Quandamooka and Meriam heritage underlie all of her songs, and she hopes that performing them brings some relief from the stresses of these post-covid times. Rochelle is one of the First Nations artists taking centre stage at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre in May for Clancestry—A Celebration of Country. She tells us on Streets of Your Town about the significance of being part of a festival that showcases and celebrates First Nations artists, on land that for thousands of years has been a meeting and cultural place for Indigenous people of this land next to the Brisbane River, or Maiwar. Join the Wandering Journo tribe to see more details on this episode of Streets of Your Town and the back catalogue at soyt.substack.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
18:41
EP03 - S4
1 May 22
Anita Heiss on First Nations writing
This week on Streets of Your Town, we speak to renowned author and proud Wiradjuri woman Dr Anita Heiss, who is a special guest of the 60th Brisbane Writers Festival coming up in May. It's a pivotal year for Anita, as its ten years since the original edition of her book "Amy I Black Enough For You" was released, and it's also the 60th anniversary of the festival itself. In Brisbane, and many areas around south-east Queensland and northern New South Wales, floods have inundated our homes, towns and cities It hit local communities hard, particularly artists who received little help from the government during the pandemic. While Australian artists may have been largely abandoned during the pandemic, they are now gathering to raise money for those inundated by flood. Some may say that gathering to talk about art in the midst of a crisis is flippant. But Anita tells me on the podcast, many artists are gathering to raise money for those inundated by flood. And gathering together again she says is actually crucial for communities to recover. Join The Wandering Journo tribe at soyt.substack.com and read all the background stories from these little gems of Australian life. This week’s newsletter can be found at: https://soyt.substack.com/p/anita-heiss?s=w See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Anita Heiss on First Nations writing
This week on Streets of Your Town, we speak to renowned author and proud Wiradjuri woman Dr Anita Heiss, who is a special guest of the 60th Brisbane Writers Festival coming up in May. It's a pivotal year for Anita, as its ten years since the original edition of her book "Amy I Black Enough For You" was released, and it's also the 60th anniversary of the festival itself. In Brisbane, and many areas around south-east Queensland and northern New South Wales, floods have inundated our homes, towns and cities It hit local communities hard, particularly artists who received little help from the government during the pandemic. While Australian artists may have been largely abandoned during the pandemic, they are now gathering to raise money for those inundated by flood. Some may say that gathering to talk about art in the midst of a crisis is flippant. But Anita tells me on the podcast, many artists are gathering to raise money for those inundated by flood. And gathering together again she says is actually crucial for communities to recover. Join The Wandering Journo tribe at soyt.substack.com and read all the background stories from these little gems of Australian life. This week’s newsletter can be found at: https://soyt.substack.com/p/anita-heiss?s=w See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
14:45
EP02 - S4
31 Mar 22
Daylesford's Chill Out Festival with Mathew Charlesworth
I figured we all need some light and hope in the world right now, so I’m bringing Streets of Your Town to you from Daylesford in regional Victoria, where the Chill Out Festival takes over the town from March 10 to 14. Many of you will know plenty about the party that is Sydney Mardi Gras. What you may not know is that little Daylesford is on the map for its own pride festival, which this year celebrates its 25 year silver jubilee. The town comes alive with a Carnivale, champagne and Chill Out Street Parade, that transforms the central highlands of Victoria into queer country. Come sit with me at Larder, one of the town’s most well known coffee haunts, where I meet Mathew Charlesworth, who tells me how Daylesford is the gay capital of regional Victoria. This isn’t just a recent phenomenon, Daylesford has become well known for being a friendly space for LGBTQI communities from around the country, for decades.Join The Wandering Journo tribe at soyt.substack.com and read all the background stories from these little gems of Australian life. This week’s newsletter can be found at: https://soyt.substack.com/p/chilloutfestival?s=wSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Daylesford's Chill Out Festival with Mathew Charlesworth
I figured we all need some light and hope in the world right now, so I’m bringing Streets of Your Town to you from Daylesford in regional Victoria, where the Chill Out Festival takes over the town from March 10 to 14. Many of you will know plenty about the party that is Sydney Mardi Gras. What you may not know is that little Daylesford is on the map for its own pride festival, which this year celebrates its 25 year silver jubilee. The town comes alive with a Carnivale, champagne and Chill Out Street Parade, that transforms the central highlands of Victoria into queer country. Come sit with me at Larder, one of the town’s most well known coffee haunts, where I meet Mathew Charlesworth, who tells me how Daylesford is the gay capital of regional Victoria. This isn’t just a recent phenomenon, Daylesford has become well known for being a friendly space for LGBTQI communities from around the country, for decades.Join The Wandering Journo tribe at soyt.substack.com and read all the background stories from these little gems of Australian life. This week’s newsletter can be found at: https://soyt.substack.com/p/chilloutfestival?s=wSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
13:07
EP01 - S4
7 Mar 22
Season 3
Season 2
Season 1
Download the app to get the full experience
Get a fully curated daily feed based on your favourites, access to curated collections, preview every show, and much more.
