• How do you wake a sleeping language?

  • Jul 4 2019
  • Length: 36 mins
  • Podcast

How do you wake a sleeping language?

  • Summary

  • Prior to 1788 there were an estimated 250 Aboriginal and Torres Strait languages and 800 dialects spoken across this continent we now know as Australia. Now there are approximately 150.

    In lutruwita (Tasmania) a sleeping language has been revived and made it’s way to the Venice Film Festival. palawa kani is a community initiative. Researchers and linguists combed through historical records, word lists created by French scientists and an English missionary.

    Dr Richard Walley, a Noongar musician grew up on the outskirts of Perth, out of reach of the authorities, speaking language and practicing culture- he didn’t realise that it had been outlawed. Years later he took what he’d been taught and formed a performance group- then at a festival in 1976 he got a request that he couldn’t refuse...

    The Few Who Do with CGU Insurance. Two hosts, one problem, two possibilities.

    Warning: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be advised that this episode of The Few Who Do may contain the voice and names of people who have passed away.

    Featured guests:

    Theresa Sainty, Aboriginal Linguistic Consultant, Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre

    Dr Richard Walley, Co-Founder of Aboriginal Productions

     

    Show More Show Less

What listeners say about How do you wake a sleeping language?

Average Customer Ratings

Reviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.

In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.