Bangarra Dance Theatre's 'Horizon' has been screened under the stars at the Gab Titui Cultural Centre, bringing a production with strong Zenadth Kes connections to local audiences.
The community screening highlighted the ongoing relationship between the Torres Strait Regional Authority's (TSRA) Gab Titui Cultural Centre and Bangarra Dance Theatre, which has helped provide local audiences with access to contemporary First Nations performing arts.
First premiering in 2024, 'Horizon' brings together Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Māori artists to explore connections to Country, identity and home.
The production includes significant Torres Strait representation, opening with 'Kulka', choreographed by Saibailaig Bangarra alumnus Mr Sani Townson.
TSRA Chairperson George Nona said the screening recognised the contribution of Zenadth Kes artists working in the national performing arts sector.
"Bangarra is one of Australia's leading First Nations performing arts companies and Torres Strait Islander artists have made an important contribution to its work," Mr Nona said.
"'Horizon' has strong connections to Zenadth Kes through Sani Townson and Deborah Brown, and we were pleased to provide an opportunity for our community to see their work here at Gab Titui.
"Screenings like this also give our young people and emerging artists an opportunity to see Torres Strait creatives working at the highest levels of Australia's performing arts sector."
Mr Townson drew on his Torres Strait heritage for the work, which pays tribute to his grandfather.
'Horizon' also features 'The Light Inside', created by Bangarra alumna Ms Deborah Brown, a descendant of the Wakaid Clan and Meriam people, alongside Māori choreographer and Arts Laureate Mr Moss Te Ururangi Patterson of Ngāti Tūwharetoa.
Bangarra Dance Theatre has presented Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stories through contemporary dance for more than three decades, working with First Nations artists and communities across Australia.
Gab Titui has developed an ongoing relationship with the company through a shared focus on supporting First Nations artists and improving access to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts and culture.
The relationship has previously helped connect Zenadth Kes audiences with Bangarra productions including 'Waru - journey of the small turtle', a children's production inspired by Torres Strait culture and the lifecycle of the green turtle.
Mr Nona said the partnership also supported the TSRA's work to promote Zenadth Kes arts and culture.
"Gab Titui provides an important platform for Torres Strait artists and cultural practice, while also connecting our community with First Nations arts organisations across Australia," he said.
"Our relationship with Bangarra creates another avenue to promote Torres Strait representation and ensure our community has access to significant First Nations productions."
The 'Horizon' screening was presented as part of the Gab Titui Cultural Centre's ongoing Public Programs schedule.
