Since joining Bangarra Dance Theatre in 1991 as resident composer, I have composed and produced the score for 14 productions with the company. This has allowed me to develop a unique music style which has become synonymous with one of Australia’s most dynamic performing arts companies. Bangarra has given me so much over the past 20 years. It has helped me learn more about my culture and myself than any university could have. I’ve gained an enormous amount of self-confidence and integrity to stand strong and identify myself as an Aboriginal song-man, while maintaining my ability to succeed in a competitive industry.

I’ve collaborated with the best; Djakapurra Munyarryun who magically invited me into the traditional world of language and song; Eugene Casey introduced me to music programming; Steve Francis taught me how to produce, record and mix; while Elena Kats Chernin took me on a classical musical journey.

I’ve travelled to many countries and experienced many cultures. I’ve become a part of an extraordinary extended family of dancers, musicians, designers and administrators who started out young and full of ambition and continue to grow with great spirit, talent and love. None of this would ever have happened without the respect and belief of all those amazing people that make up the Bangarra family, especially my two brothers Stephen and Russell, who have given me the most of all by just being my beautiful brothers. My music would not exist without them. Regardless of what Bangarra has given me, what matters most is what Bangarra has given the world of dance over the last 20 years –and we know what that is –the plain truth.

David Page
Composer