Sherre DeLys: 'If'

Abstract

'If' features a young boy facing illness with the gift of invention. In 'If' Andrew Salter (voice) conveys his experience of being in hospital through metaphor, exemplifying the transformative qualities of fantasy, empathy and humour. We follow his naturally lyrical voice into realms of pure imagination and elemental musicality. 'If' was inspired by the NewChildren's Hospital at Westmead (Sydney), with its gardens, aviary, art collections, and even its own radio station. The performers on 'If' were Andrew Salter, voice; Ion Pearce, cello and voice; and Hannah Peters, voice. The sound engineer was John Jacobs. 'If' was produced for The Listening Room, ABC Radio Arts and Australian Perspecta 1997 in conjunction with an embodied sound installation at the New Children's Hospital at Westmead.