Our Land People Stories

BDT is currently in town with a showcase of three works choreographed by members of the team demonstrating their unique stamp of indigenous influences all destined to satisfy those who like contemporary dance and an electronic musical score with a difference. 

The first, Macq,  choreographed by Jasmin Sheppard, is a slant on Governor Macquarie and how the machines of Europe affected the land and its first settlers. Though a good choice of theme, this work failed to satisfy due to its immaturity of presentation, lack of dance and a rather frenetic ballistic solo by Macquarie at the end of the piece.

The second, Miyagan, choreographed by Beau Dean Riley Smith and Daniel Riley, more of a wash of movement, displayed some interesting choreography in true indigenous style, likewise the score which had some rhythmical high points, though the choreographers' notes lacked any fruitful explanation of the creative process apart from a potpourri of thank-yous.

But what elevated the night was Page's epic work Nyapanyapa inspired by the paintings of Nyapanyapa Yunupingu. Full of symbolism, surrealism and some enigmatic moments, this work brought together the essence of this company with its earthy florid floor choreography and sense of colourful collaboration.

Jacob Nash's set design is very effective as is Matt Cox's lighting design and Jennifer Irwin's costume design.

It's refreshing to see our national heritage so richly presented by such a passionate and devoted team.

Brian Adamson 

Photos: Wendell Teodoro