“In Between Songs” documents Djalu Gurruwiwi, Australian Aboriginal elder, leader of the Galpu clan, and world-renowned didjeridu master, as he fights for the future of his family and his community. Alcoholism and drug abuse run rampant, while a ravenous bauxite mining company continues to swallow up sacred land and precious resources. Armed with his yirdaki (didjeridu), and a mixture of Aboriginal spirituality and adopted Christianity, Djalu struggles to maintain his culture and traditions within the tiny mining community of Nhulunbuy in the Northern Territory.
The future of Djalu’s Galpu clan remains uncertain. Despite Djalu’s intentions to preserve tradition, his open heart, and his willingness to speak to the Western world are frowned upon by other clan leaders. Without a clear successor to his leadership, Djalu, in his eighties, is uncertain as to who will carry on his legacy and sacred knowledge of traditional didjeridu.
With unprecedented access into the daily lives of Djalu and the Gurruwiwi family in Australia’s Top End of Arnhem Land, this compelling documentary provides a unique examination of the experience of the modern aborigine and reveals crucial challenges to a clan’s survival. Shot on location, 'In Between Songs' is a mystical journey of discovery, giving voice to an ancient wisdom essential to the world’s cultural heritage.
Emmy award winner and Oscar nominated actor/activist James Cromwell narrates this stirring feature documentary.