Vigil: Gunyah is a gathering space at Barangaroo Reserve that is led, curated and designed by and for First Nations peoples, communities and allies. Over three weeks of Sydney Festival, it will host conversations curated by radio broadcaster Rudi Bremer, as well as workshops and performances by local and national artists and thinkers. 

A soundscape from composer and sound designer Brendon Boney will fill the space — encouraging passersby to sit, listen and reflect on their own contributions to a First Nations-led future.

The three weeks of programming lead up to 25 January, culminating in the return of Vigil at Barangaroo Reserve. This year, Vigil: Truths focuses on being heard, sharing knowledges and presenting First Nations visions for the future. At its core is the act of listening — listening to the many voices that will resonate across the land and waters on this night.

Soundscape Installation
Tuesday 7 January to Saturday 25 January

Week 1: People
Thursday 9 January at 11am – Dance Workshop with Tynga Williams of Brolga Dance Academy
Saturday 11 January at 11am – Dance Workshop with Tynga Williams of Brolga Dance Academy
Saturday 11 January at 3pm – People, Protocol, and Place Talk hosted by Rudi Bremer
Saturday 11 January at 7pm – Sunset Performance: Mi-kaisha

Week 2: Country
Thursday 16 January at 11am – Weaving Workshop with Malima Indigenous Weaving and Education (Gweagal / Dharawal)
Saturday 18 January at 11am – Weaving Workshop with Adalene Williams of Plant a Promise
Saturday 18 January at 3pm – Plant a Promise Talk hosted by Clarence Slockee
Saturday 18 January at 7pm – Sunset Performance: Dyagula

Week 3: Spirit
Thursday 23 January at 11am – Meditation Workshop with Akala Newman
Saturday 25 January at 11am – Meditation Workshop with Akala Newman
Saturday 25 January at 3pm – Caring for Spirit Talk hosted by Rudi Bremer

Vigil: Truths
Saturday 25 January at 7pm

For more information on the annual event which closes out the Vigil program, visit Vigil: Truths.

Those wishing to partcipate in workshops will be required to register online. Registrations will open in December.