This interactive, immersive and thoroughly wholesome children’s show is back after a critically-acclaimed (and kid-approved) premiere season. Bangarra Dance Theatre’s very first work for children, Waru tells the story of the life cycle of the green turtle. An accessible introduction to Torres Strait Islander culture for three- to seven-year-olds, it's beautifully told using a combination of storytelling, dance and movement.
Perfect for the littlest culture connoisseurs, Waru was lovingly created by Bangarra’s former artistic director Stephen Page, together with his son, actor and Playschool presenter Hunter Page-Lochard. It follows Migi the turtle (Aba Bero) on her journey under the star-illuminated skies of the Torres Strait, back to the beach where she was born – under the protection of loveable, Bruce Lee-loving grandmother Aka Malu (Elma Kris).
The saltwater Lagaw Kazil (Island Children) story is inspired by the totemic system of the green turtle, and it offers teachers, parents and caregivers an opportunity to open up conversations about climate change, caring for the environment and the traditional cultural values of respect and reciprocity.
Sharing the wealth of thousands of years of First People’s knowledge is at the heart of what Bangarra does. Stephen Page told Time Out that he's proud he and his son worked hand-in-hand on Waru alongside an incredible artistic team, which includes Bangarra alumni Sani Townson and Elma Kris. Jacob Nash has created a beautiful beach set and turtle costume, with Matt Cox conjuring life-giving sun and a swarm of green turtles with his lighting design. Leonora Adidi, Helen Anu [sister of Christine] and Peggy Misi provide lilting lullabies, with the score by Page’s late brother David Page and resident composer Steve Francis.
Waru is touring nationally in 2023, with the Gadigal/Sydney shows settling at Bangarra’s Studio Theatre in the Walsh Bay Arts Precinct for the school holidays from September 27 to October 14.
All performances include free foyer activities for children, facilitated by experts from the Australian National Maritime Museum one hour before and after each show, where kids will have the opportunity to create their own turtle artwork and learn about the Torres Strait Islands.
The performances run for 45 minutes without an interval and start at 11am and 1.30pm. Kids two and under can go free if kept in the lap of a paying audience member. Get your tickets here.
