Blue Mountains News

The playful and provocative collection of new experimental short films were commissioned by Sydney Opera House.  

The Blue Mountains screening, presented by Council, explores themes of resistance, reclamation and renewal through new Australian short film. 

Included in the film line-up is Planetether Kin by Blue Mountains movement artist Em Yali, who developed much of the film’s concept, textile objects, and costuming in 2024 as the first artist in residence at Katoomba Resource Recovery & Waste Management Facility. Planetether Kin offers a

reflection on intergenerational wisdom and environmental interconnectedness, inviting audiences to reconsider their place in the intricate web of terrestrial existence. 

The evening will open with a new site-specific dance work by Yali, developed and performed in collaboration with Emily Cooper and Janelle Randall-Court. Then following the screening, Stuart Buchanan, Head of Screen at Sydney Opera House, will facilitate a Q&A discussion with Em Yali. The audience will have a chance to learn more about the creative process and themes explored in the film, before enjoying drinks and refreshments with the artists. 

“This event offers an exciting opportunity for Blue Mountains audiences to engage with innovative art that pushes boundaries and challenges perspectives,” said Blue Mountains Mayor Mark Greenhill.

“We are always exploring ways to bring the community a broad range of creative offerings, and this is a great example involving recycling, a unique residency, inventive artists, a Sydney Opera House partnership, bold new screen works, and a historic Blue Mountains theatre.” 

Shortwave is a one-night-only event at the Wentworth Falls School of Arts, recommended for audiences aged 15 and over. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased online, and more information can be found at here

Date: Saturday, 22 February 2025 
Time: 7pm
Venue: Wentworth Falls School of Arts, Wentworth Falls 
Tickets: $10 
Presented by: Blue Mountains City Council 
Supported by: Sydney Opera House