SandSong (2021)

Telling the stories 

Story telling in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander life is the means by which cultural knowledge, systems and values are preserved and transferred. The stories of the ancestors are passed on through song, music and dance, maintaining the connection of people to the land, waterways and skies, while honouring ancient traditions and lore as the stories are passed from generation to generation. 

Sharing and passing on of knowledge

Each year Bangarra spends time On Country in specific Indigenous communities, meeting with elders and traditional owners of that community - learning about stories that connect the people and the creatures to the land, water and skies. Everyone who works at Bangarra feels very strongly about their role in the company’s work. They make sure that the stories they tell are respectful of the traditional owners wishes, and uphold the integrity of the stories’ meanings. 

Experiencing dance in a theatrical context 

It is important to note that dance theatre works are essentially the creation of artistic invention to express a broad range of ideas and thoughts. While some information is provided in the program notes and study guides, the audience is free to respond to the work according to their individual thoughts and levels of experience.