The X Collective's "Equus": Brisbane Theatre Review

X Collective's "Equus" at The Holy Trinity Hall in Fortitude Valley is a mesmerising exploration of psychological and emotional connection, disconnection, power and pain. The intimate setting of the church hall is leveraged well (it was built 133 years ago), transforming the space the audience shares with the cast into something quite evocative. This particularly enhances the narrative's religious undercurrents and was a great choice of venue.

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Daniel Jess
Understanding the Kodály Method and Its Application in Studio Teaching

The Kodály Method, founded on the philosophies of Hungarian composer and educator Zoltán Kodály, is an approach to music education that emphasises the importance of starting musical training early in life and primarily through singing. This method has gained widespread acceptance and is particularly effective in studio teaching environments for singing instructors aiming to enhance their pedagogical techniques.

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Daniel Jess
Tips for Working with Transgender Singing Voices in Choirs

In recent years, the choral community has become more aware of the importance of inclusivity, particularly for transgender singers. Creating a welcoming environment not only benefits individual singers but also enriches the entire choir. Here are some key tips based on recent research and expert recommendations. Read more about how to work effectively with transgender singers in choirs.

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Daniel Jess
Vocal Habilitation in Post-Acute Symptomatic COVID-19 Recovery: A Narrative Review for Singing Teachers

The World Health Organisation (WHO) declared a global health pandemic on 11 March 2020, due to the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2, or COVID-19). This virus has profoundly impacted various professions, including singers and singing teachers, who report significant vocal, respiratory, psychological, and stamina disturbances. As the pandemic continues, addressing the vocal health challenges faced by these professionals is crucial. This narrative review synthesises multidisciplinary literature to provide practice-based strategies for vocal habilitation in singers recovering from symptomatic COVID-19.

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Daniel Jess
Review of X Collective's captivating double bill: 'Tonight with Donny Stixx' and 'Dark Vanilla Jungle'

Professor Dan Jess of ACVA reviews the opening night of The X Collective’s first production for 2024. A back-to-back performance of two compelling one-act monologues by English playwright Philip Ridley: Tonight with Donny Stixx and Dark Vanilla Jungle. If you don’t remember the name, Ridley also wrote Vincent River, Mercury Fur, Piranha Heights and The Poltergeist, to name just a few of his theatre credits.

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Daniel Jess
Exploring the Soul of Music: Understanding Traditional Folk Songs

A traditional folk song is a melody that has been orally transmitted from one generation to another within a particular community or cultural group. These songs often reflect the everyday lives, struggles, celebrations, and aspirations of the people who sing them. Rooted in the oral tradition, they evolve over time, adapting to the changing circumstances and perspectives of the communities that embrace them.

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Daniel Jess
Opera Australia's 2024 season will open with ‘audaciously new’ production of La Traviata

Opera Australia opens its eagerly awaited 2024 season with the Sydney premiere of Sarah Giles’acclaimed production of Verdi’s classic La Traviata, on 2 January at the Sydney Opera House. Labelled as “an absolute triumph” (The AU Review) and “audaciously new” (InReview) this co-production by Opera Queensland, State Opera South Australia and West Australian Opera, delivers the traditional glamour of La Traviata whilst giving this world-famous opera a fresh, female perspective.

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Daniel Jess
CHICAGO Australian Tour Opened This Week In Perth

CHICAGO Australian Tour Opened This Week In Perth! “The sharpest, slickest show on the block” (The Times UK) began its Australian tour this week in Perth. CHICAGO will play at Crown Theatre until 17 December before transferring to the Lyric Theatre QPAC from 2 January 2024, Her Majesty’s Theatre, Melbourne from 23 March, the Capitol Theatre, Sydney from 9 June and the Festival Theatre, Adelaide from 4 August.

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Daniel Jess