Horizon, a double bill from Bangarra Dance Theatre, is a groundbreaking work unlike anything the renowned company has produced before. For the first time ever, Bangarra tells a cross-cultural story paying homage to the First Peoples of the Oceania region, beyond just (so-called) Australia.
We begin with Kulka, the opener by Sani Townson. This powerfully percussive piece throbs with energy, with a cracking pace set by what can only be described as aquatically aligned EDM beats pumping through Arts Centre Melbourne’s Playhouse. The shapes are sharp and the lifts are as elevated as our heartbeats as the dancers cluster in the form of crocodiles, birds and other clan animals of the Saybaylayg people of Zenadth Kes (Torres Strait).
A reflective panel upstage creates mesmerising reflective mirages, as innovative floor projections enhance the narrative. While the fast-forward feel of Kulka hooks us in, it also creates a slightly rushed feeling, leaving us wanting more as the conclusion hits.
Next up is Horizon’s meatier work, The Light Inside. This hotly anticipated two-parter unites the creative forces of two distinguished First Nations choreographers: Moss Te Ururangi Patterson and Deborah Brown.
Part one, Salt Water, is choreographed by Brown, a distinguished Bangarra alumna and descendant of the Wakaid Clan, Badu Island and the Meriam people of Murray Island in the Torres Strait. It’s a tribute to the people of Zenadth Kes and their connection to land and sea. Part two, Fresh Water, is by Te Ururangi Patterson, a renowned Māori choreographer born near Lake Taupō, where the work is set. This half centres around upholding Māori storytelling and intergenerational knowledge.
Though the two pieces are culturally, stylistically and tonally distinct, an enduring sense of Indigenous strength and pride radiates through both Salt Water and Fresh Water. The artistry and technical prowess of the ensemble is positively otherworldly, their focus laser-sharp as they explore, defend, gather and celebrate through the ancient language of movement.
Fresh Water holds a particularly memorable series of sequences, where women take the lead, chants are incorporated and hair is intricately intertwined.
The lighting and score are naturalistic, mimicking pouring rain, stretching sunrays, scuttling animals and steady heartbeats. Stunning costumes resplendent with glittering embellishments and semi-transparent materials add to the sense that the dancers are bathed in real light.
Salt Water and Fresh Water showcase two rich histories and cultures from which Melbourne audiences can and should learn so much. One important tip though: you’ll get a lot more out of the Horizon experience if you read the program first, as the narrative might not be completely clear without the additional context.
Together, these works form a profoundly engaging and dynamic duo, where the athleticism is as remarkable as the cultural transcendence.
Horizon is playing at Arts Centre Melbourne until September 7. Tickets start from $59 and you can secure yours at the venue website.
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