BANGARRA DANCE THEATRE - SHELTERING

Three stories of Country. One message of hope.

Beneath the constellation of Bangarra’s creative and cultural legacy, experience a program of three powerful works: Keeping Grounded, Brown Boys, and Sheoak, which honour Bangarra’s past while looking to the future.

An intergenerational thread connects this bold triple-bill, drawing deeply from First Nations perspectives, and offering a profound journey into the intricate bonds between people and place. Rooted in Indigenous knowledge, the concept of shelter is reimagined as a sacred, transformative space: a haven of protection, connection, and the sharing of stories across generations.

Keeping Grounded, choreographed by Indjalandji-Dhidhanu and Alyewarre woman Glory Tuohy-Daniell, is a poignant exploration on our energetic connection to the earth and ancestral land. Born of Dance Clan 2023 and reimagined for a new stage, this piece explores the challenges of staying culturally and physically grounded in a world increasingly shaped by technological advancement.

Brown Boys is a groundbreaking dance film directed by Daniel Mateo and Cass Mortimer Eipper. Visually poetic and deeply personal, it delves into the experiences of young Indigenous men, exploring identity, belonging, and cultural connection. Inspired by Mateo’s own poetry, the film intimately portrays his journey as a Gamilaroi and Tongan man—blending dance, narrative, and cinematic artistry. This work was first presented in Dance Clan 2024.

Sheoak, choreographed by Mirning woman Frances Rings for Bangarra Dance Theatre with music by Munaldjali and Nunukul man and renowned composer David Page, is a deeply affecting work exploring themes of resilience, connection to country, and cultural identity. The work, which premiered in 2015 as part of the double bill Lore under Munaldjali and Nunukul man Stephen Page’s artistic direction, draws inspiration from the sheoak tree—a powerful symbol in Indigenous Australian culture known for its strength, adaptability, and deep meaning.

Together, these three works engage with vital First Nations social and cultural issues, reminding us of the spirit at the heart of indigenous worldviews and the enduring connections between people, land, and spirit.

Cultural Content Advisory
This work honours the late David Page, whose music remains a living heartbeat within Bangarra’s story. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are advised that this content includes the name, voice and creative legacy of a person who has passed. We share this work with deep respect and love for David, his family, and community.

23-27 May, Canberra Theatre

Contact the host of Ausdance ACT presents a Workshop with Bangarra Dance Theatre