The rain spirits visited the night of Bangarra celebrates 25 years!, causing delays and an eventual shortening of the program, however Bangarra were still able to proudly stage this free outdoor performance — a gift to the people of the Eora Nation.

From twilight, under the lights and sounds of Sydney Harbour this was a gathering that reflected Bangarra’s beginnings, starting with a special traditional Yolngu performance from North East Arnhem Land. The performance culminated in a spectacular dance experience by the Bangarra dancers presenting the company’s most iconic works, along with a variety of performances and guest appearances.

Emceed by the eloquent actress Deborah Mailman, the evening included a short performance by the NSW Public School Aboriginal Dance Company mentored by Bangarra, and song stories by Christine Anu, accompanied by Torres Strait Islander dancers from Bangarra.

This production features the First Nations languages Kala Kawaw Ya, Kala Lagaw Ya (Central & Western Torres Strait Islands), Yolngu Matha (Yirritja) (North East Arnhem Land).

Sections of Bangarra celebrates 25 years!

Deborah Mailman - opens the event
Christine Anu - Song stories from Stylin Up accompanied by Torres Strait Islander dancers from Bangarra
Deborah Mailman in Discussion with Larissa Behrendt
NSW Aboriginal Dance Company - Traditional performances from North East Arnhem Land and the Torres Strait Islands as well as performances of iconic repertoire from Bangarra's most acclaimed productions.
Yolngu Bungul Djama
White, Black, and Yellow from Ochres (1995) (not performed due to wet weather)
Cocoon from Fish (1997)
Moth from Bush (2003) (not performed due to wet weather)
The Call from Walkabout (2002) (not performed due to wet weather)
Kinship from ID (2011) (not performed due to wet weather)
Acknowledgement, Kuki, and Kaimo Eso from About (2011) (not performed due to wet weather)
Goelada and Paddle Traditional Torres Strait Islander dances
Waru from Turtle (2001), and Diesel (Yagi Kuyk) from Fire - A Retrospective (2009)