An unforgettable evening of songs and stories with 92-year-old Thiinma Elder Peter Salmon, a living legend of the land.

Piyalbajarri (‘Yarns’) is a one-hour stage show of stories and songs, performed by 92-year-old Thiinma Elder, stockman and songwriter Peter Salmon with long-time collaborator, Rosie Sitorus.

Peter tells his life stories in both Thiinma and English, allowing audiences the rare chance to hear a critically endangered language spoken by its only living speaker — and still understand every word. Each yarn is paired with original songs, written and performed by Peter and Rosie as part of their creative partnership, Ngaliju, which began with the songwriting project Warralgurniya (‘singing’).

With warmth, humour and the easy flow of campfire storytelling, Peter recalls a lifetime on pastoral stations, his deep connection to Thiinma country, and the resilience and strength of culture that have carried him through. Together with Rosie — an experienced performer, linguist and community advocate — they create a moving, cross-generational performance that leaves audiences enriched, entertained and connected.

This is a rare and powerful experience, offering insight into a world rapidly disappearing into history and celebrating the life and voice of a remarkable man.

Piyalbajarri is both a performance and an act of cultural sharing — a space where the audience can sit with stories, laugh, listen, and experience the strength of language passed through voice, memory and song.

Audience member quotes:
“We were looking through a window at a bygone era … a living history right in front of us”
“[Piyalbajarri] was gold! I came away with an emotional life experience”

Warning: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples are advised that this presentation will show pictures of people who have passed away (used with their next of kin’s expressed permission)

Audience: Family Friendly

In accordance with the venue’s liquor licensing regulations:
Juveniles up to and including 15 years old must be accompanied by an adult over 18 years old
Juveniles aged 16 and 17 years old may attend the event unaccompanied (photo ID recommended)
Juveniles of any age are not permitted at the Theatre Bar, but can purchase non-alcoholic drinks & snacks from the KPAC Kiosk