The Sounds of Burma in Wagga Wagga

It is something very special to be able to welcome new performers and audiences to the theatre.  On Saturday 31 October we are planning to do just that.  The Rvzi Band (Pronounced Razi) features members from the local Burmese community who will present a lively concert of pop, rock and country songs that every music lover will enjoy.

So whilst you can’t board the plane and head off on adventures abroad just yet, you can get a taste of Burma in our own backyard. The back story for this group is amazing, inspiring and frankly just a bit interesting.

When I started to research a little about where the band is from, the controversy and turmoil was evident immediately.  Is it Burma? Is it Myanmar?  Well, officially it is Myanmar after being changed by the ruling military junta in 1989, but some pro democratic groups prefer to stick with Burma. So as a result both are used and accepted. Burma tends to be used in conversation, Myanmar is more formal.

The word Rvzi means “Mountain” in Rvwang language and has been chosen to represent the mountainous countryside of the band member’s homeland in Kachin State in Northern Burma.

The band members come from two distinct regions; Kachin and Rvwang in the remote valleys and mountains of the Himalayas.

The Burmese community in Wagga Wagga has been growing for over 10 years.  The Multicultural Council of Wagga Wagga (MCWW) has a strong relationship with this community and is partnering with the theatre to bring this concert to the stage for everyone to enjoy.

No need to pack your suitcase.  Come on a trip to Burma (or Myanmar if you prefer) and let Rvzi take you on a journey through the mountains.

“I got a sneak peek of the concert last night at rehearsal and can’t wait!!
Music lovers are in for a treat! 
With a rotating roster of lead vocalists the performance covers classic rock, country with a groove to it, pop and traditional Burmese compositions.”
- Thom Paton,  Multicultural Council of Wagga Wagga -