If you are in Sydney, there is a great opportunity for you to see First Nations people share their culture.
Hundreds of First Nations dancers are set to compete in the DanceRites competition at the Sydney Opera House this weekend.
300 performers from 18 dance groups will vie for overall prizes worth more than $41,000.
The Opera House’s Head of First Nations Programming, Michael Hutchings says it’s unlike any other event in Australia.
“It’s the only national cultural dance competition in the country and it’s a chance for them to perform and get together which they don’t get a chance to do to very often, to perform on the iconic forecourt of the Sydney Opera House, also known as Tubowgule,’ he said.
Performers from across the country will compete at the event tomorrow and Sunday (19th and 20th October, 2024).
“It’s all about culture, that’s what DanceRites is. It’s very much grounded in culture,” he said.
“Our judges are very respected dancers and cultural workers in their own right.
“They’re looking for technique, they’re looking for cultural expression and they’re looking for dancers who are able to transfer their cultural performances from generation to generations.”
He says the event is a great way for people to express themselves and escape issues in their communities.
“Arts are a really great way for people to celebrate their cultures especially in times of stress and times of pressure put on First Nations people,” Mr Hutchings said.
“Culture is what brings us all together, especially art and performance because it’s a celebration but it’s also a symbol of power.”
DanceRites is a free event, and the performances will start at two o’clock (AEDT) on both days.
Feature image: AFL Cape York Aboriginal cultural dance. Image credit: Wayne Quilliam.
