Wata means many things: it is a part of a ceremonial song cycle, part of the manikay (public song) tradition of the Ngukurr people. It is also a purification ritual, a song of new beginnings, of release, of flight, and connection to land, ancestry and hope for the future.
With complex patterns of yidaki and bilma forming the building blocks, musicians of the Sydney Symphony and guest improvising soloists weave in and out of the songs led by Daniel Wilfred and David Wilfred, guided by Grabowsky’s powerful orchestration.

Wata is an invitation to experience a new form of musical collaboration within the manikay tradition, inside the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall. It’s exciting, invigorating and spontaneous. Come experience the expansive warmth and astonishing musicality of Wata. It’s totally life affirming.