Salama: Island Rhapsodies

Experience Maloya music and dance in a vibrant celebration of Réunionese Creole culture. Join Salama, the dynamic award-winning ensemble led by artist and cultural advocate Dr Muriel Hillion-Toulcanon, as they bring the rhythms and stories of Réunion Island to life. Réunion – a lush island in the Indian Ocean – holds a rich cultural identity shaped by colonisation, slavery, and migration. At its heart is Maloya, a powerful tradition of music and dance born from resistance and resilience. Once banned and performed in secret, it is now recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Salama's performance is immersive and unforgettable, blending traditional percussion, soulful vocals, and expressive movement. Their original songs—performed in Malagasy and Creole—reflect diverse cultural roots from La Réunion, Mauritius, Seychelles, West Africa, and Sri Lanka. Themes of womanhood, freedom, love, and childhood are explored with heart and energy. Following their award-winning season at Fringe World Perth 2023 (Best Music/Musicals), Salama brings Island Rhapsodies to Tasmania for the first time. This is more than a show—it's a living expression of cultural memory and joy, passed down through generations. Whether you're discovering Maloya or reconnecting with Creole roots, this performance welcomes all with its contagious spirit and celebration of identity. Content warning: This performance includes loud percussion.