The Art House Presents

The Surge is a multi-layered feast of music, ideas, lessons from the past and hope for the decade ahead, brought to you by Australia’s prolific new music group Ensemble Offspring and leading guitarists Andrew Blanch and Vladimir Gorbach. Together, they reignite two ’90s classics by iconic Australians Peter Sculthorpe and Nigel Westlake, alongside five recent commissions reflecting on the cultural, environmental and political situations Australia finds itself in today. 

These thoughtful and engaging works – composed especially for The Surge by Aussies Robert Davidson, Felicity Wilcox and Jessica Wells – examine everything from human-induced climate change to the pervasive influence of the internet. With stunning live visuals by the ever-inventive Peachey & Mosig, immerse yourself in poignant social revelations and shameless ’90s nostalgia! 

Note: This performance will take place in our Studio (directly opposite the café/bar). The Studio is General Admission unassigned seating. Please choose a seat from the seating bank upon arrival. 

Encore Members and a guest are invited to an exclusive pre-show function with nibbles and drinks*. Encore Members must show their Member card* for entry.

 *two complimentary drinks per person. Collect your member card from the Box Office.

Program

Paul Mac – Redfern Address (2019)

Peter Sculthorpe – Tropic (1992) flute, clarinet, violin, cello, piano, percussion

Jessica Wells – Diminishing Species (2021) flute, clarinet, violin, cello, piano, percussion

Felicity Wilcox – Tipping Point (2021) flute, clarinet, violin, cello, piano, percussion

Jessica Wells – Technophiles (2021) flute, clarinet, violin, cello, piano, percussion, tape

Nigel Westlake – Tall tales but true (1992) flute, clarinet, violin, cello, piano, percussion, tape

Jessica Wells – This is the Nineties (2021) flute, clarinet, violin, cello, piano, percussion

Robert Davidson – Netsurf (2021) flute, clarinet, violin, cello, piano, percussion, tape