Our Early Voices | Banula Marika

Banula Marika, a Rirratjingu songman, actor, dancer and cultural leader from Northeast Arnhem Land, reflects in conversation with Rarriwuy Hick on the teachings of his father, Roy Dadunga Marika, and the cultural exchanges and friendships that helped shape Bangarra’s earliest foundations. After travelling to Sydney in 1985 to share traditional dance with AIDT and NAISDA students, Banula joined the newly formed Bangarra Dance Theatre, performing in its first productions and touring seasons. Today, he continues to work across stage and screen, carrying the spirit of his mother and father through every step, song and story, and passing on an enduring cultural legacy.