Brolga (2001)

Telling the Stories: Corroboree (2001)

WHAT IS THE INSPIRATION FOR THE PRODUCTION CORROBOREE?

Corroboree explores the transformation of the human spirit, the relationship between Aboriginal people, creatures and the land, and what it is that unifies us as human beings. Corroboree is about challenging, awakening and cleansing the spirit. Corroboree also explores contemporary social issues, and relates them to traditional dreaming stories.

“An evocative journey that is both earthy and mystical, allowing us to relate yet also dream”
“Corroboree challenges, but also unites us on the common ground of the Australian spirit”
Courier Mail, 22.6.01

WHERE DO THE STORIES COME FROM?

Corroboree is a contemporary interpretation of creation stories of the Yolngu people of Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory of Australia.

Bangarra has a long relationship with the Aboriginal families in Yirrkala, Dhalinybuy and Bremer Island, with several Bangarra productions drawing inspiration from the stories, people and land of the region. Cultural consultant, Djakapurra Munyarryun, a songman and elder of the Dhalinybuy community provided invaluable knowledge and advice during the creation of Corroboree. Djakapurra also performs in sections of Corroboree. All permissions and source material used in the creation of Corroboree needed to be cleared with the Yolngu elders and Djakapurra Munyarryun is their spokesman.

Corroboree was directed and choreographed by Stephen Page with choreographic contributions for another section of the work Turtle, provided by Peggy Misi, a descendant of the Kaigas Augadh clan from Thursday Island in the Torres Strait. The music for Brolga is a blend of contemporary sounds and music from the Yirrkala and Nhumbuwah lands in North East Arnhem Land.