Indigenous youth in Dubbo are being encouraged to reconnect with their Indigenous heritage through the Bangarra Dance Theatre's Rekindling program.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Rekindling is an intensive dance program for secondary students to produce a performance based on the themes of 'who you are' and 'where you come from'.
Bangarra's youth director Sidney Saltner said it was a challenging program but important to keep Indigenous heritage alive.
"For myself personally, I grew up in a small town, probably even smaller than Dubbo, and the stories aren't being told anymore. Youth aren't interested. We're trying to build a connection between the elders and the next generation," Mr Saltner said.
Auditions will be held in Dubbo in February to choose between 24 and 30 students to progress to the gatherings.
Mr Saltner said the three gatherings involved getting a story from the elders, working on a contemporary piece and learning style and technique.
While it is a dance program, Mr Saltner said there was a broad selection criteria including not only the ability to pick up choreography but also an interest in the initiative.
"It's hard work, but the kids who want to participate in the program, if they want to learn about themselves, about art, about dance, they should come along," he said.
Rekindling was developed in 2012 and this is the first time it has been held in Dubbo.
Mr Saltner said community consultation with Aboriginal elders had been underway since mid-November.
Dubbo auditions for Rekindling will be held at Delroy Junior Campus on February 12. To register or find out more information go to bangarra.com.au/rekindling.