Films
DAVID BRIDIE + TELEK
ABEBE – BUTTERFLY SONG
DAVID BRIDIE + TELEK
SYDNEY PREMIERE
• 5:45pm SUNDAY Feb 11th, 2024
w/ Q&A + David Bridie live performance
• 8:15pm SUNDAY Feb 18th, 2024
DENDY CINEMAS, NEWTOWN
Co-presented by Groovescooter for the
Antenna Documentary Film Festival
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“A documentary about the power of music to transcend boundaries… to heal and rebuild. A tale of courage and determination. (Bridie & Telek’s) friendship has endured life-threatening illnesses, political and cultural trials, addictions, and the volcanic devastation of Telek’s home town of Rabaul…” [Filmink]
Dir: Rosie Jones
Featuring: David Bridie, George Telek, Helen Mountford, John Phillips, Martin Flanagan, Namila Benson, Patrick McCluskey, Paulie Stewart, Phil Wales, Pius Wasi, Tania Nugent
Following it’s World Premiere at Melbourne International Film Festival, Sydneysiders now have the opportunity to see Abebe – Butterfly Song in the cinema as part of the Antenna Documentary Film Festival. In 1986, one of Australia’s most beloved and unique vocalists/composers – Melbourne musician David Bridie of the groups Not Drowning, Waving and My Friend the Chocolate Cake – travelled to Papua New Guinea, where he heard the heartfelt sounds of Telek and the Moab Stringband’s song Abebe (Butterfly Song) on board a bus. It marked the beginning of Bridie’s profound fascination with the nation and its rich culture, and a lifelong bond with Telek that has lasted more than 30 years. Together, their ARIA Award-winning collaborations on critically acclaimed albums and tours has helped amplify Papuan string-band sounds and languages, like Tok Pisin and Kuanua, outside the country. With sensitivity and skill, documentarian Rosie Jones (The Family, The Triangle Wars) has crafted a meaningful portrait, not only of two passionate musicians from different backgrounds, but also of the water-crossing artistic exchange between Australia and one of its closest neighbours.
More than a film about two respected musician/songwriters, Abebe – Butterfly Song is a testament to the power of enduring friendship and cross-cultural collaboration. Bridie’s brotherly relationship with musician George Telek Mamua, goes beyond an artistic partnership and a well-founded belief that his music would find a legion of fans around the world. It documents how the universality of music can be a gateway to love, understanding and a deeper spiritual connection.