Awkwardstra Geelong – More than Music

Awkwardstra Geelong is an inclusive community orchestra that welcomes musicians of all backgrounds and experience levels.

This year, enjoy a powerful performance of our usual toe-tapping, infectious music that you will be sure to want to dance along to.

In addition, we partner with True South Film to create a series of impactful video portraits capturing the stories of our musicians and the transformative power of community music, beyond the music itself.  The series will explore themes of inclusion, community, joy, and personal growth, highlighting how Awkwardstra helps musicians reconnect with themselves and their instruments, rediscover the joy of music-making, and find belonging.

These stories will premiere as part of a flagship concert hosted by celebrated Australian actress and Geelong local Natalie O’Donnell and led by Musical Director and Conductor, Joel Carnegie. The performance will weave the video portraits between Awkwardstra’s vibrant, democratically chosen repertoire, ensuring the program reflects the voices and passion of our members.  The concert will also feature our anthem, Awkwardstra! by Kym Dillon, an “extravaganza for orchestra and piano”.

This was initially developed through a City of Greater Geelong Arts Project Grant in 2025 and is a work that embodies the heart and journey of Awkwardstra. This project has been funded by a City of Greater Geelong Community Grant.