GINA WILLIAMS REFLECTS ON THE EXCITING RETURN TO FESTIVALS AND THE POWER OF MUSIC
Gina Williams and her musical partner, Guy, are excited to return to familiar country, a place that left a lasting impression on them a few years ago. “We’re really, really super excited to be heading up that way,” Gina said. “There’s just something about that country that stays with you.” Their return is driven by a deep connection to the land and the people, which continues to shape their music.
They also remember a very special performance held on January 25th, where they chose to mark the date with a gentle and beautiful gig at the Duke of George in Fremantle. “It was a beautiful gig, lots of really lovely punters. We’re getting more and more people come along that we don’t know,” she noted, reflecting on how their music has reached more people and how this is deeply meaningful to them.
A key highlight of their performances is the song “Bindi Bindi,” which holds special meaning for Gina. The butterfly represents transformation, a theme that resonates strongly with their audience. “People love the Bindi Bindi song sung by the butterfly. I think it relates to us... butterflies are proof that we have second chances,” Gina explained.
The song’s singalong part, where the audience learns the words “kwobidak Kalyakoorl” (meaning beautiful forever), further strengthens the connection between the artists and the audience.
“It tends to resonate with people which is lovely,” she added, showcasing the power of music to bring people together and create lasting memories.
In addition to their performances, Gina and Guy have made significant strides in their careers, with their operatic works being a notable achievement. Gina’s pride in their work is clear: “It’s the second opera we’ve written... they’re the only works of their kind in this country.” She expresses both joy and sadness about these stories being told, knowing there are countless untold stories waiting to be shared.
She also reflects on the incredible experiences they’ve had, especially when performing to packed crowds. “It was surreal... His Majesty’s Theatre packed with community and mob, coming to see these stories,” Gina shared, emphasizing the importance of sharing culture through language and music.
Looking ahead, Gina is excited about the collaborations at upcoming festivals, sharing the stage with artists like Shane Howard, Dr. Klein, and Kylie Bracknell, whose works she is eager to see.
Ultimately, Gina and Guy aim to create connections through their music, leaving audiences with a sense of belonging and understanding: “We just want to make friends... we’re just friends that you haven’t met yet.”