Waru—journey of the small turtle

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! 

In Bangarra’s first dedicated work for children, 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 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. 

 

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

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.

 

 

Waru has been generously supported by the Girgensohn Foundation and the Restart Investment to Sustain and Expand (RISE) Fund – an Australian Government initiative.

 

Creative Team

Director Stephen Page

Cultural Creatives Sani Townson and Elma Kris

Writer Hunter Page-Lochard

Composers Steve Francis and David Page

Featured Songs by Helen Anu, Leonora Adidi and Peggy Misi

Set and Costume Design Jacob Nash

Lighting Design Matt Cox

Language Consultant Leonora Adidi

 

Artists

Aka Malu - Storyteller Elma Kris

Performer Aba Bero

 

Recommended for ages: 3 – 7 years

Duration: 45 minutes

 

 

When

Location

Goulburn Performing Arts Centre, 163 Auburn Street, 2580, View Map