Anticipation is building as The Australian Ballet School prepares to bring the enchantment of Possum Magic to life at the Melbourne Arts Centre, commemorating the 40th anniversary of Mem Fox and Julie Vivas' timeless picture book. Adding a distinctive Kiwi touch to this production is the talented New Zealand Composer, Claire Cowan.

Cowan's previous album, the soundtrack for Hansel and Gretel, secured her the title of Best Classical Artist 2021 at the Aotearoa Music Awards. Adding to the accolades, it was recently voted the #2 favorite classical piece in the RNZ Concert 'Settling the Score' poll. With a track record like this, Possum Magic is poised to capture the hearts of audiences, just as its predecessor did.

Distinguished by its intimate and chamber music qualities, Possum Magic offers a departure from Cowan's previous symphonic ballets. The album, recorded at Auckland's Parachute Studios, explores the diverse sounds of Australian cities as Hush and Grandma Poss search for the elusive 'human foods.' With something for everyone, the CD has 22 tracks of possummy fun.

THE CONCEPT

"With such a beloved classic tale, it is sometimes hard to know where to begin musically - but I eventually settled on finding a theme for Hush, and built the rest of the score around this. In Possum Magic, Hush’s desire for visibility is the emotional heart of the tale, and her beautiful relationship with Grandma Poss inspired me to bring warmth and playfulness to the score. I am honored as a Kiwi to contribute to this widely adored Australian story."

The first half of the production, set in Homebush, immerses the audience in a jangling, swinging 6/8 feel, evoking the bouncing of kangaroos, the rustling of leaves, and the scuttling and pattering of paws and claws. Cowan's ability to translate the essence of the narrative into musical elements adds a layer of richness to the storytelling.

Taking the concept of a musical journey literally, Cowan ensured that each place visited in the story has its own unique musical identity.

"Each place we travel to had to have its own musical sound too. -In Melbourne, I was able to take the rhythm of tram bells and make a sassy bossanova! And in Brisbane, to add to the seagulls and sound of the waves, what would be more appropriate than surf rock?"

A musical chameleon, Cowan often explores vastly different genres within one soundtrack. “Sydney” features both Opera style music and then a techno version thereof, evoking the classic waterfront New Year’s Eve by the Opera House. “We’re not afraid to get a bit ridiculous, with kangaroos, emus and echidnas all raving away to a pulsing dance track with fireworks booming across the water.”- Claire Cowan

THE ARTISTIC CONTRIBUTORS

Noteworthy is the stellar lineup of musicians who contributed to the album, including Peau Halapua, Lara Hall (Violins), Luca Manghi, and Hye Won Suh (flutes), Matt Baker, and Andrew Uren (Clarinets), Callum Hall (Cello), and Robert Ashworth (Viola). Cowan herself played the plucked stringed instruments (ukulele, mandolin, guitars), keyboards, and percussion, showcasing her ability as a performer as well as composer.

The production is Choreographed by Loughlan Prior, the same visionary behind the choreography for Hansel and Gretel and Cinderella, the production promises to seamlessly weave Cowan's musical tapestry with captivating dance.

The artistic brilliance extends to the set and costumes, masterfully designed by Emma Kingsbury, acclaimed for her work on Cinderella. Together, Prior and Kingsbury bring their artistic prowess to elevate Possum Magic into a visually stunning and emotionally resonant performance.

Possum Magic is set to release online on December 8th.