Generations and Dynasties The Donovan Family Merv, Hilton, Michael, Leon, Ashley and Emma

  • First Nations
  • Contemporary Music
  • Utzon Room
  • Run time: 75 minutes Subject to change

Join the Donovan Brothers Merv, Hilton, Michael, Leon and Ashley together with their late sister Agnes’ daughter Emma Donovan, for a powerful evening of music, storytelling and culture. Proudly of the Gumbaynggirr and Dunghutti Nation’s, the Donovan family has shared its living musical legacy since the late 1960’s, bringing generations together through songs grounded in family, strength and community.

Moderated by Elaine Crombie

This special performance places the spotlight on the enduring legacy of their parents Micko and Aileen Donovan. Through their music, leadership and deep relationships with the broader community, Micko and Aileen broke down barriers of racism and division. They were unwavering in their commitment to equality, quickly establishing a zero-tolerance on racism and prejudice —values that became the foundation of both their family and their music.

Founded by Micko and Aileen Donovan, the musical legacy continues through their sons—Merv, Hilton, Michael, Leon and Ashley—who have sustained a long-standing tradition of live performance grounded in family, culture and community.

The next generation is represented by Emma Donovan a contemporary singer-songwriter in her own right, along with her many cousins carry forward the strength, integrity and vision instilled by Micko and Aileen, ensuring their message of unity and respect remains at the heart of the family’s music.

Spanning generations, the Donovan family continues to honour the legacy of Micko and Aileen—celebrating creativity, storytelling and hope in this special performance.

Presented by Sydney Opera House

Event details

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Attending this event

Plan your visit

Address

Sydney Opera House
Bennelong Point
Sydney NSW 2000
Australia

Getting to the venue

The Opera House is a 7-10 minute walk from Circular Quay, and is easily accessible by car, train, ferry, lightrail, bus, bike and on foot.

Location and access

Utzon Room

The Utzon Room is located on the Eastern side of the Opera House, in front of the Joan Sutherland Theatre. Best accessed through the Box Office Foyer or the Covered Concourse. All Sydney Opera House foyers are accessible, with lifts to the main and western foyers. The public lift to all foyers is accessible from the corridor near the escalators on the Lower Concourse and also in the Western Foyer via the corridor on the Ground Level (at the top of the escalators).

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