Proud Kalkadoon woman Lacey Bilger recently graduated from NAISDA with an Advanced Diploma of Professional Dance Performance for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
The arts training organisation was delighted to learn that Kalkadoon’s recent dance work, Low Level, has since been commissioned by Catapult Dance Choreographic Hub for Newcastle Art Gallery.
Kalkadoon was engaged as part of Catapult Dance’s Activate emerging artists program, supported by Create NSW Service Needs Funding.
The work will be presented on Saturday, August 26, as part of the closing weekend celebrations for the art gallery’s video work Dead Tongue by Dr Christian Thompson.
Adding to her accomplishments, Kalkadoon also recently wowed audiences in the world premiere of ATI: A Dance Reckoning of Truth, Place, and Belonging, a NAISDA production presented at Carriageworks last month.
“The Advanced Diploma is about getting you ready to enter the professional dance industry,” she said.
“I found it a really independent course, which sets you up for whatever avenue you’d like to go down after your studies.”
NAISDA’s Advanced Diploma is tailored for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dance artists entering their final 18 months of study before embarking on a professional dance career.
The comprehensive program also caters to practising industry artists looking to enhance their professional practice and entrepreneurial skills.
It addresses the evolving demands of the performing arts industry by providing retraining, skill enhancement, and diversification opportunities.
Applications for NAISDA’s 2024 program remain open until August 21, with experienced dance practitioners encouraged to apply for next year’s Advanced Diploma to further their careers and expand their artistic horizons.
NAISDA’s flexible learning pathways also include an entry-level Certificate III in Dance Practice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
This opens doors for high school students eager to explore the vibrant world of dance and performing arts.
Audiences can see Kalkadoon’s work on Saturday, August 26, from 6pm at James Street Plaza in Hamilton as part of an evening of First Nations performance and music.
To apply to NAISDA, First Nations applicants aged 16 and over should visit www.naisda.com.au/apply and submit their application before August 21.
Source:
NAISDA