Cultural Identity Bangarra

BANGARRA DANCE THEATRE

Historical Background:
Bangarra is an aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisation founded in 1989 by dancer and choreographer, Carole Johnson. Based at Walsh Bay in Sydney, Bangarra exists to create a foundation for the care and celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural life. Since 1991, Bangarra has been led by Artistic Director and Choreographer Stephen Page who has created a unique style, fusing traditional aboriginal dance and contemporary technique.

Artistic director:
Stephen Page was born in Brisbane where he studied dance at the National Aboriginal and Islander Skills Development Association (NAISDA). After graduating in 1983 he went on to dance with the Sydney Dance Company until
The story of Mathinna explores her personal journey and highlights some of the key political, cultural and social interactions that occurred at the time of colonisation, which is significant as it gives audiences an insight into the life of an Aboriginal girl during the time of colonisation. The intent of the work is to demonstrate the social disruptions that occurred as British settlers relocated the Aboriginal people from their tribal lands, intervened in their cultural practices and challenged their traditional
Through costuming; The use of traditional costumes, especially those unique to the culture as well as including significant colours within the costumes, enable audience members to gain a greater understand of the cultural represented. These costumes help enhance the overall performance and helps particular characters to be more easily understood. In section one and three the male dancers where in earthy colours representing the natural homes of the Aboriginal people.
Music; Through the choice of music, audience members can relate unique instruments and specific rhythms. This musical arrangement can help represent cultural identity to audience members, with an example being in section 1 and 3, the inclusion of the