Waru – Journey of the Small Turtle

Australia's highly celebrated Bangarra Dance Theatre is bringing their first ever show for kids to Bunjil Place! 

Under the star-illuminated skies of the Torres Strait, a green turtle navigates her way back to the beach where she was born. The season has started, the turtles are returning to nest, and soon the island will welcome a new generation of hatchlings – amongst them, our small turtle friend, Migi. 

Join our heroine Migi as she undertakes a journey of discovery and survival. A contemporary saltwater Lagaw Kazil (Island Children) story inspired by the totemic system of the green turtle, Waru – journey of the small turtle is an interactive and immersive introduction to Torres Strait Islander culture and dance for 3–7-year-olds.

Created by former Bangarra Artistic Director, Stephen Page, together with Hunter Page-Lochard and Bangarra alumni Dancers and Choreographers Sani Townson and Elma Kris, Waru provides teachers, parents and care-givers with a unique opportunity to open up conversations about climate change, caring for the environment and the traditional cultural values of respect and reciprocity.  

Suitable for ages 3+

_{Presented by Bangarra Dance Theatre.}  

_{Inspired in part by Turtle (Corroboree, 2001), choreographed by Stephen Page, Peggy Misi and Elma Kris.} 

Pre-show Art Activities
Create your own turtle artwork and learn about the Torres Strait Islands!
Join us in our foyer for Waru pre-show craft and reading activities that explore Torres Strait culture.
Activities are available to drop in from 4.30 pm - 5.30 pm.
 

Featured songs

Koey Maluya by Helen Anu, Leonora Adidi and Peggy Misi, choreographed by Peggy Misi, Elma Kris and Sani Townson. 
Waru by Helen Anu, Leonora Adidi. 
Soeywal Wayi by Helen Anu, Leonora Adidi. 
Play Dance, Kasa Kab, choreographed by Peggy Misi and Stephen Page. 

Cast & Credits

Artists: 
Aka Malu - Storyteller Elma Kris 
Performer Aba Bero 

Creative Team: 
Director: Stephen Page 
Cultural Creatives: Sani Townson and Elma Kris 
Writer: Hunter Page-Lochard 
Composers: Steve Francis and David Page (dec)
Featured Songs: Helen Anu, Leonora Adidi and Peggy Misi 
Set and Costume Design: Jacob Nash 
Lighting Design: Matt Cox 
Language Consultant: Leonora Adidi