Kambarni mural to honour the legacy of Bran Nue Dae indigenous musical in Subiaco

A colourful tribute to the famous Broome musical Bran Nue Dae has added a touch of colour to Subiaco, as the latest tour of the indigenous play wrapped up its Perth leg in the city.

Artist Kamsani Bin Salleh, known as Kambarni, used his knowledge of the story to create a stunning mural representing key elements of the hit musical, after being hand-picked by the family of late playwright Jimmy Chi.

Kambarni, pictured, who has strong connections to the Kimberley, said painting the piece was like a story in itself and his aim was to give onlookers the “Broome feel”.

“There is a dingo to represent finding your feet, a parrot to symbolise spreading your wings and flying, which are both universal messages of the play,” he said.

“Then there are Cherry Ripe bars, shells, both features of the play, and a little tribute on the side acknowledging what it is all about.

“It is jam-packed, yet simple, and honours the legacy of Jimmy Chi and his play.”

The 30-year anniversary rendition of the musical, which was written in 1990, was performed at the Regal Theatre in Subiaco across one week, after debuting in New South Wales.

Veteran actor Ernie Dingo, rising stars Marcus Corowa and Teresa Moore and Broome talents Ngaire Pigram, Taj Jamieson and Bojesse Pigram feature in the play, which will next visit Sydney, Geelong, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra and Adelaide.