In 2022, River City Voices reinvented a cherished Christmas tradition by pairing Handel’s Messiah with contemporary performance poetry. In 2025, Slam Messiah returns featuring the same iconic score, reimagined through fresh voices and new poems. Born from Handel’s own struggle to sustain faith in turbulent times, Messiah finds renewed urgency in this bold fusion of spoken word and baroque music. Though the era has changed, themes of inequality, displacement, hope and resilience remain strikingly relevant.
Artistic Director Dr Sarah Penicka-Smith says, “Slam Messiah honours our choral heritage and Western Sydney home. We’re thrilled to showcase first-rate soloists and inspiring young poets who, with Handel’s music, illuminate our shared humanity as 2025 draws to a close.”
Presented in a vibrant chamber format ideal for newcomers, three Western Sydney poets respond to the work’s enduring questions, framed by thrilling arias and the famous “Hallelujah” chorus. Featuring poets Daniel Mehareb, Rania Omar and Charnel Rizk, acclaimed vocalists Kerry Nicholson, Wesley Haotian Yu and Michael Lampard, and the dynamic Muffat Collective, Slam Messiah offers an electrifying, deeply human experience. Join River City Voices for an evening that challenges, uplifts and redefines the meaning of a classic.
2MBS Fine Music Sydney Subscribers have an opportunity to win a double pass to see Slam Messiah on Saturday 6 December, at 3pm or at 7.30pm
When: Saturday 6 December, 3pm and 7.30pm
Where: Bryan Brown Theatre, Bankstown
Tickets: from $15
Bookings: click here