We acknowledge and pay our respects to the Elders, Ancestors and leaders of the Kulin Nations on whose unceded lands ILBIJERRI Theatre Company is based.
We extend this respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, recognising their resilience and ongoing connection to land, water and culture, despite ongoing colonial interruption and genocide.
Always was, always will be, sacred Indigenous land.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples should be advised that this website may contain images of deceased persons.
BIG NAME, NO BLANKETS is a major scale rock’n’roll theatre show that celebrates the phenomenal journey and impact of Australian music icons, the Warumpi Band, told through the perspective of the Butcher Brothers.
Making history for being the first rock’n’roll band to sing in Aboriginal languages, the Warumpi Band are nationally and internationally acclaimed for creating the Black Anthems of Australia: Jailanguru Pakurnu, My Island Home and Blackfella/Whitefella.
Warumpi Band brought hope and strength to First Peoples and united all Australians, singing truths that echoed the realities of black and white relationships in a colonised world. Their songs celebrate unity, for black and white audiences to enjoy together. They amplified black voices, stories and politics while uniting all cultures with their infectious music.
Named after the title of Warumpi Band’s second album, BIG NAME, NO BLANKETS features Warumpi Band hits, and showcases Luritja/Pitjantjatjara, Gumatj (Yolngu Martha) and Warlpiri languages, culture and dance from Central Australia and North East Arnhem Land. Employing both new and 80,000 year old story-telling techniques, all audiences will feel welcomed into this incredible story from the bush.
Created in collaboration with Warumpi band founding member, Sammy Butcher and the families of Warumpi band members, BIG NAME, NO BLANKETS speaks untold truths about the band’s extraordinary ride from the remote bush in Papunya NT to international fame.
Packed with humour, iconic songs and rock star performances, BIG NAME, NO BLANKETS will be a joyful show that celebrates how music can influence massive change.
Story and Cultural Consultant Sammy Butcher
Writer Andrea James
Co-Directors Dr Rachael Maza AM & Anyupa Butcher
Story Consultant Anyupa Butcher
Sound Arrangement & Composition Crystal Butcher
Sound Arrangement & Composition Mentor David Bridie
Band Arrangement & Composition Gary Watling
AV Designer James Henry
Set Designer Emily Barrie
Band includes Jason Butcher & Jeremiah Butcher
Dramaturg Amy Sole
Creative Consultant Lisa Watts
Theatre Consultant Sarah Goodes
Producers Nina Bonacci & Alexandra Paige
Images Supplied by Neil Murray and the Butcher Family