NAISDA proudly celebrated the year’s achievements with a show honouring the 2021 NAIDOC theme of Heal Country.
yadhaba ngura was directed by NAISDA Physical Theatre Unit Manager Angie Diaz, with cultural dance under the direction of NAISDA Head of Cultural Practice Jo Clancy and NAISDA Cultural Tutors Stuart McMinn, Dujon Niue and Berthalia Reuben.
“yadhaba ngura meaning ‘Get well land’ in Darkinjung language features a vibrant collection of cultural and contemporary dance and physical theatre works exploring Country, truth telling and our life journeys,” explained Director Angie Diaz.
“It celebrates our return to live, learn and dance here on Darkinjung Land after lockdown,” added Ms Diaz.
To keep everyone safe whilst making yadhaba ngura as accessible as possible, NAISDA livestreamed this special performance.
“With livestreaming comes the opportunity to connect with our NAISDA family, communities and audiences across Australia,” said NAISDA Chief Executive Officer, Kim Walker.
“We wanted to keep this a free event so we can come together as a community, and virtually share our skills, stories and rich creative expression,” he added.
As for many in the arts and training industries, a second year of operating during the pandemic has meant distanced learning and adapting to a new normal via technology.
“Learning remotely, especially for physical and dance subjects is demanding. It is wonderful to now be back rehearsing and training together in the studios,” he added.
“yadhaba ngura includes new works choreographed by our NAISDA Diploma Developing Artists, vibrant urban dance works and originally devised works celebrating our return to dancing on Darkinjung Land,” concluded Mr Walker.