Waru – journey of the small turtle will transform The Art House Theatre into a beautiful beach on the Torres Strait when it opens this September.
The first dedicated children’s work from the critically acclaimed Bangarra Dance Theatre, Waru is an interactive and immersive introduction to Torres Strait Islander culture and dance for three to seven year olds.
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.
Recognising that children are conscious of the wider world around them and curious of their place within it, Waru aims to inspire a sense of connection to Country and to foster an appreciation of the many cultures and people who make up Australia.
As a contemporary Torres Strait story, Waru is an opportunity for children to learn about the wonders of the natural world and what it can teach us through the eyes of one little turtle.
Featuring original dance, music, costuming, lighting and set design, Waru is a contemporary saltwater Lagaw Kazil (Island Children) story inspired by the totemic system of the green turtle that follows little Migi on her journey of discovery and survival.
Created by Bangarra’s former 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 caregivers with a unique opportunity to open conversations about climate change, caring for the environment and the traditional cultural values of respect and reciprocity.
“Waru, told by one of the Torres Strait Islands’ greatest storytellers Elma Kris, is about celebrating the connection of Torres Strait Island people to sea, ocean, land and sky,” Page said.
“Even though it’s a children’s show, it carries very old stories of the green turtle’s life cycle that will connect to all people today.”
Waru will be performed at The Art House on Friday, September 22, at 10am and 12.30pm (school performance) and on Saturday, September 23, at 10am.
Book on the theatre website.
Source:
The Art House