Parrwang Lifts the Sky

A long time ago... the sky was a blanket on the land. The earth was in darkness and the people were afraid. It was a very sad state of affairs and would have stayed that way except for the courage of Parrwang the Magpie.

Tjatja and Koki are young, adventurous and tired of living in the dark. When they manage to climb to the highest branches of an ancient gum tree they discover an exciting new world and a steadfast friend in Parrwang – who decides to help the young humans lift the blanket of darkness from the ground.

A plan is devised, but can Parrwang convince Mr Waa and the Great Council of Birds to agree?

This story of Magpies creating the first dawn is based on an original story from Wadawurrung Country told to the children of the Wathaurong by community Elder, the late Uncle David Tournier.

Created by acclaimed Yorta Yorta soprano Deborah Cheetham Fraillon AO for Short Black Opera.