She's the Centre of Attention in Some Very Fine Company

Review of Ruby's Story

Dunstan Playhouse Until Saturday, June 12

Ruby Hunter arrives on stage in a red velvet gown with all the confidence she needs to carry an evening devoted to her life and work. It's no small thing.

Backed by her partner, renowned singer-songwriter Archie Roach, and the impeccable Australian Art Orchestra, she's the centre of attention in some very fine company.

She's an extraordinarily unselfconscious artist who imparts her rich and sometimes heart-rending life experiences with a devilish wit and rare warmth. Then there's her voice, which is so deep and dramatic it seems to carry the weight of her people when it's not in the process of knocking your socks off.

This show follows Hunter's story in yarning and song, from her early years in the Riverland, to her experiences as a member of the Stolen Generation and meeting Roach at a Salvation Army drop-in centre in Adelaide.

There's some wonderful knockabout banter between the couple, who contributed the lyrics and music, arranged for the performance by Australian Art Orchestra leader Paul Grabowsky and his nine-piece band.

Highlights include an almost anthemic version of Roach's classic of contemporary Australian songwriting, Took The Children Away.

- The Advertiser (Louise Nunn), 12 June 2004

Reviews of Ruby's Story

• Music That Goes Right Into my Bones
• The Ebb and Flow - Songs from the River of Life
• Ruby's New Ground
• Swirling Sea of Sonic Passion
• A Unique Collaboration has Created an Authentic Form of Australian Blues and Jazz
• Daughter of the River
• What an Amazing, Memorable Night Out!
• She's the Centre of Attention in Some Very Fine Company
• The Success of the Fusion
• Magical River Music
• Joyous Celebration
• Everything About the Show was Just Right