Lendlease has today launched the second instalment of its video series, ‘Sydney Isn’t Sydney Without You’, a love letter celebrating the reconnection of people and place as Sydney’s CBD heart beats back to life.
While the first video was captured during lockdown, the second instalment captures the movements of artist Christopher Jhureea as he dances through the busy Barangaroo streets, characterising Sydneysider’s joy in returning to the city. With the easing of government restrictions, 95 percent of retail businesses at Barangaroo are once again open and trading.
Jacqui Stanton, Retail Marketing Manager, The Streets of Barangaroo and Darling Square said: “With this love letter, we wanted to celebrate the return of Sydneysiders to the city, pay our respects to the First Nations people on whose land we stand, and honour the hardworking hospitality and retail workforce who have re-opened their doors with a smile. Places are made by people and seeing the streets come back to life has highlighted our vibrant and dynamic spirit and culture.”
The narrative of the video opens with a traditional smoking ceremony performed by First Nations Songman Matthew Doyle, and the placing of a red arm wrap; a symbolic gesture of respect and reminder to look after country. Doyle also collaborated with producer Jungle Feelings on the original soundtrack, featuring the Eora and Dharawal (southern Sydney) language with a customary song to assist the spirit on its journey.
The video was directed by Billy Zammit who collaborated with movement artist Christopher Jhureea again to produce the second instalment. Dance and movement through The Streets of Barangaroo is poetry in motion and symbolises the revitalised and open precinct. Restaurant owner Michelle Grand-Milkovic of love.fish also features as a powerful voice for retailers, which are the beating heart of the city.
Speaking of the series, Billy Zammit, director, said, “The Barangaroo precinct to me has always felt harmonious with life and movement. Collaborating with Chris Jhureea and Matthew Doyle allowed for a welcoming, yet high-spirited opportunity to showcase the true embodiment of this public space.”
A digital and social campaign will support the video series. In addition, a competition will run over the next four weeks with thousands of dollars in dining vouchers on offer to welcome Sydneysiders back home.
