Welcome to Breaksea 2026​

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This year has been a remarkable journey of community engagement, cultural celebration, and artistic achievement.

 

Here’s a snapshot of the highlights from across Breaksea’s diverse programs and initiatives in 2025.

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Acknowledgement Song Project

The Breaksea team visited schools across the Great Southern to teach over 2,000 children to sing "Kinjarling" with Auslan — a powerful new acknowledgement song by Gina Williams & Guy Ghouse, inspired by Menang Elders and deeply connected to place. The project culminated in a stunning performance at the Aliwah Bardinar premiere, where 550 children’s voices filled the air with heartfelt singing and Auslan.

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The Albany Project

Our ongoing collaboration with West Australian Opera is flourishing, with the final workshop of the Breaksea Youth Writers’ Group, culminating in a script read-through of The Song Catchers written by Artistic Director Matt Reuben James Ward. Guided by a stellar team of creatives, young writers explored their talents and shared stories inspired by the Menang landscape and environmental themes.

 

breaksea line dancing project, Breaksea Youth Ensemble,

& NYE community choir

The Breaksea NYE Community Choir & Breaksea Youth Ensemble, conducted by Pia Harris and prepared by Choral Director Neville Talbot, are rehearsing each week for Kaya 2026, fostering unity and hope through songs in Noongar and English. Additionally, a lively line-dancing music video was filmed at the Anzac Peace Park, with choreography led by Annette Carmichael — which will premiere on New Years' Eve!

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Aliwah bardinar!

The much-anticipated Aliwah Bardinar! delighted audiences at Albany Entertainment Centre & Heath Ledger Theatre this year, with its vibrant portrayal of how the Western Rosella got its colours. Packed with lively dialogue, catchy songs, energetic dance, stunning costumes, puppets, and Indigenous language, the show captured the imagination of children and families alike. Joined by Breaksea Youth Ensemble, UWA Conservatorium of Music, Music Theatre students and Aquinas College Schola Cantorum, they superbly supported the principals in this joyful show. 

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Breaksea Children's choir

In a heartwarming highlight, the Breaksea team delivered Breaksea Children’s Choir in the East Kimberley. Led by Artistic Director Matt Reuben James Ward and Music Director Pia Harris, the program nurtured local talent with leadership from Lex Randolph and Jenny Pufke. Lydia Lai’s positivity and Rachael Colmer’s support were instrumental in inspiring these remarkable children. The Kimberley’s unique spirit continues to inspire us, and we look forward to returning for more community-driven projects.

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Next up!

The excitement continues with City of Albany presents, KAYA 2026 New Year’s Eve Picnic & Fireworks at Anzac Peace Park, featuring live music, community performances, and spectacular fireworks, all infused with side by side collaboratioin and storytelling.

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As we reflect on an incredible year, we thank everyone — community members, Elders, artists, and supporters — for their dedication and passion. Breaksea is committed to fostering artistic excellence, cultural pride, and community connection in 2026 and beyond.

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We are very excited to launch our 2026 season soon, we can't wait to share it with you!

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