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.
A rock’n’roll theatre performance celebrating the phenomenal journey and impact of Australian music icons, Warumpi Band, told from the perspective of the Butcher Brothers.
Named after Warumpi Band’s second album, BIG NAME, NO BLANKETS this rock 'n' roll theatre performance features Warumpi hits, showcasing Luritja, Warlpiri and Gumatj / Yolngu Martha languages and culture.
Making history as the first rock ’n ’ roll band to sing in Aboriginal languages, Warumpi Band is acclaimed for creating our Black Anthems: 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 colonised lands. They amplified black voices, stories and politics while uniting all cultures with their infectious music.
Packed with humour, iconic songs and rock star performances, BIG NAME, NO BLANKETS is a joyful show about how music can influence massive change.
With more locations to be announced
Sydney Festival
10-14 January 2024
Roslyn Packer Theatre, Sydney Theatre Company,
22 Hickson Rd, Walsh Bay NSW 2000
This project has been assisted by the Australian Government's Major Festivals Initiative, managed by Creative Australia, its Arts Funding and Advisory Body, in association with the Confederation of Australian International Arts Festivals Inc., commissioned by RISING, Sydney Festival, Darwin Festival, Brisbane Festival and Adelaide Festival.
Story and Cultural Consultant Sammy Butcher (founding member of Warumpi Band)
Writer Andrea James
Co-Directors Dr Rachael Maza AM and Anyupa Butcher
Sound Arrangement and Composition Crystal Butcher
Sound Arrangement and Composition Mentor David Bridie
Band Arrangement and Composition Gary Watling
AV Designer James Henry
Lighting Designer Jenny Hector
Set Designer Emily Barrie
Band includes Gary Watling, Jason Butcher and Jeremiah Butcher
Theatre Consultant Sarah Goodes
Dramaturg Amy Sole
Producers Nina Bonacci & Alexandra Paige
Image by Oumoula Mckenzie
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
Theatre Consultant Sarah Goodes
Dramaturg Amy Sole
Creative Consultant Lisa Watts
Producers Nina Bonacci & Alexandra Paige