Human Maturing

On Saturday night, I stood in the midst of a massive crowd at The Domain, dancing and singing along to the sounds of Al Green. The Reverend Al Green, who must be 70 by now, sings with such excitement, his crooning lifting cheers from the whole crowd. His wide smile and sense of humour thrilled us all.

Aboriginal Elders had opened the evening's performance with a smoking ceremony. The Black Arm Band, a troupe of indigenous performers, opened the evening with a celebration in song of the survival of their peoples and culture. The true survivors, musical elders too, Ruby Hunter and Archie Roach graced the stage.

The crowd was full of young and old fans and dancers. One woman, in her 60's who danced all night told me that 60 is the new 40, didn't I know? 

I do know it was a privilege to be present to such a performance. Such display of energy, prowess and mature musical gifts that the Reverend Green, Ruby Hunter and Archie Roach shared with us on Saturday evening. 

Thank you to the Sydney Festival!