Ampe-mape Alyelheme! Kids Sing! Children’s Ground

Artist 

Children’s Ground is a not-for-profit, First Nations organisation using evidenced-based approaches, designed to achieve radical reform. Their vision is for all children and families to live with dignity and justice, free from economic poverty; for First Nations people in Australia to achieve their aspirations for their children to enjoy a life of opportunity, strong cultural identity, and personal wellbeing by having voice and agency over their social, cultural, political and economic future; and for Australia to know its history and celebrate First Nations culture and future.   

Development Process 

Children’s Ground have been working on a series of songs for children, in Arrernte language. They applied to Project Seed to develop a live show of these songs, working with professional musicians to develop the music score and the performance elements, the group undertook an intensive week of workshops and rehearsals to prepare for the show.    

Working with staff at Red Hot Arts Central Australia, Children’s Ground decided that they wanted a free, outdoor event on the lawns at Telegraph Station in Mparntwe / Alice Springs. 

Outcome 

‘Ampe-mape Alyelheme! Kids Sing!’ was the debut performance by Arrernte singers and musicians from Ampe-kenhe Ahelhe (Children’s Ground). This Arrernte-led creative project, saw nine original songs in Arrernte performed, with many new musicians gracing the stage for the first time. The show was an overwhelming success with over 220 people in attendance. Concert goers sang and danced to songs like ‘Akaperte, Pwerlepe, Ampere, Ingke’ (Heads, Shoulders, Knees and Toes).’ 

“The show was fun as. I loved performing the songs and getting the messages across to the kids in a fun way. Such a great feeling after countless hours of practice.” – Myles Turner, Arrernte musician 

A positive, safe and welcoming space was created by Children’s Ground where the audience learnt and engaged with Arrernte culture.