A Migrant's Son
Direct from a sell-out season at Adelaide Cabaret Festival, A Migrant's Son is a true story exploring migration from Greece to Australia during the 1930’s. This extraordinary new work conveys incredible historical events that are brought to life through original compositions, creating a unique and touching account that is both hard-hitting and hilarious.
Written and performed by award winning cabaret star Michaela Burger (Exposing Edith), this is a tale about a man, the son of a poor migrant, who defied all odds and rose above adversity. From early morning deliveries for the family bakery at age seven, down opal mines in Coober Pedy and opening a chain of discount supermarkets, his unrelenting determination to build a successful life is comical and dramatic; as he pushes through like an unstoppable force and is willing to sacrifice everything for his family.
Featuring traditional instruments, including bouzouki, the show touches deeply on topics of racism, intolerance, judgement and the struggles presented by migration. Spanning nearly 90 years, it presents the audience with a deep appreciation of what Australia has offered migrants of past generations and of today. Through the engagement of community choirs as part of the show, there is also an elevated feeling of community-spirit and diversity.
MORE reviews
"A far-reaching generational story that crosses divides, ignites memories and pulls at your heart-strings...Burger's voice can stir your most deepest and darkest emotions whilst enchanting your aural sensibilities." (Stage Whispers)
"[In] her strikingly original show [Burger] stakes a credible claim to be one of Australia’s leading voices not only in cabaret, but much further afield."
(The Advertiser)
‘Her song-writing and compositions are a testament to artistry’
(In Daily)
"What makes this show special…Burger has written the songs and music which she sings with such clarity and feeling that you know they come from the heart. They tell a story and it's a good one. It is the story that millions of Australians could relate [to]"
(Australian Stage)
"An exquisitely created production…some of the vocal gymnastics performed on the night were simply mind-blowing"
(Broadway World)
"Burger’s emotionally powered narrative was one the most passionate and heartfelt I’ve seen in any cabaret show"
(Arts Review)
Original music and story by Michaela Burger
Music arranged and produced by Dave Higgins
Musical direction by Carol Young
Directed by Jane Packham
Song development mentoring by Jethro Woodward
Dramaturge Sally Hardy
Image: Claudio Raschella
