After a long absence, the Boîte Schools Chorus (BSC) is set to return to Bairnsdale, bringing a transformative musical experience to primary school students across the region at the Forge Theatre on Friday, August 21, 5.30pm.
The 2026 program, titled Akoma – The Heart, will immerse local children in the vibrant music and culture of Ghana. Under the guidance of Ghanaian cultural leaders, students will learn songs, stories, and dance traditions that symbolise love, endurance, and tolerance.
Leading the musical journey is artistic director and Ghanaian master drummer Mishael Gyabeng, alongside choir director Stella Savy.
Together, they will guide students through a non-auditioned program that celebrates West African traditions while building confidence and teamwork.
While local schools have expressed significant excitement about the return, financial constraints remain a major hurdle. Since the pandemic, rising cost-of-living pressures and stretched school resources have made it increasingly difficult for regional students to access professional arts programs.
To ensure regional schools aren’t left behind, The Boîte has launched a new donor campaign, “Give a Child a Song.” The initiative seeks community support to help students overcome the financial barriers to participation, ensuring that the joy of singing remains accessible to every child, regardless of their budget.
Participation in the chorus offers benefits far beyond the stage, with research showing that group music-making strengthens memory, concentration, and analytical skills while fostering a sense of belonging in an increasingly diverse Australia.
The Boîte Schools Chorus has involved more than 13,000 students across Victoria since 2004. With the community’s support, Bairnsdale’s young voices will once again have the chance to perform in major venues alongside professional artists.
For more information on the program or to support the “Give a Child a Song” campaign, visit the official Boîte website.
