‘Struggling Songlines’ music documentary premieres tonight on NITV
Screenwest is pleased to announce that WA music documentary, Struggling Songlines, premieres tonight on NITV.
Using the power of music and Indigenous culture, a band of brothers from One Arm Point seek the wisdom of elders to drive change amongst a troubled youth.
The half hour documentary was directed by Jub Clerc, produced by Luke Riches and Dan Riches, and executive produced by Jodie Bell of Ramu Productions.
The Riches brothers venture home to One Arm Point on a mission to strengthen culture through the music of their band, The Struggling Kings. Whilst on Bardi country, they seek the wisdom of their elders, and attempt to collectively write a song that reinforces traditional Indigenous values aimed at inspiring and engaging the youth in crisis. On their journey they encounter much more than anticipated, and undergo a spiritual journey of identity and connection.
“This story is about connection. It’s about a community that’s connected to their culture, the land and sea. It’s about connection to family and sense of belonging. As brothers and band members, we’ve used our craft in music to express these themes.” said Luke Riches and Dan Riches, Producers.
From humble beginnings growing up in the Kimberley, Struggling Songlines is the Riches brothers’ third TV production, following their SBS documentary Lost Diamonds hosted by Phil Breslin and their groundbreaking ABC Indigenous comedy series KGB, which featured an all-star cast including Clarence Ryan, Bjorn Stewart, Aaron McGrath and Mark Coles Smith.
“Screenwest congratulates the entire team, especially producers Luke Riches and Dan Riches, who through unprecedented times have produced their beautiful film Struggling Songlines and have done an amazing job. I’m looking forward to seeing their story of keeping culture, stories and language alive through the re-joining of Elders and youth to write music for future generations.” said Devina McPherson, Screenwest Indigenous Program Manager.
“NITV are proud to bring Struggling Songlines to screens across Australia, through our program Karla Grant Presents. Producers Luke Riches and Dan Riches have done an incredible job to bring The Struggling Kings story to life, showcasing beautiful sweeping country, scenic ocean, and the pursuit of reconnection to culture and language through song. I personally can’t wait to showcase this beautiful story to our audience.” said Marissa McDowell, Commissioning Editor, NITV.
Struggling Songlines premieres on NITV as part of Karla Grant Presents tonight at 8.30pm.
Production credit: Struggling Songlines is an Ardiol Creative production for NITV with principal production investment from Screenwest and Lotterywest in association with Screen Australia and NITV
Contact Screenwest
T: +61 8 6169 2100
E: info@screenwest.com.au
Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube and subscribe to our newsletter to stay up to date with Screenwest.