Marrugeku is an unparalled presence in Australia today, dedicated to Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians working together to develop new dance languages that are restless, transformative and unwavering.

Marrugeku is led by co-artistic directors: choreographer/dancer Dalisa Pigram and director/dramaturg Rachael Swain. Working together for 23 years, they co-conceive and facilitate Marrugeku’s productions and research laboratories, introducing audiences to the unique and potent structures of Indigenous knowledge systems and the compelling experience of intercultural performance. Marrugeku’s performers come from diverse backgrounds and disciplines, collaborating to co-create each production. 

• Provide an outlet for community members of all ages to develop new theatrical skills
• Produce professional shows with local talent for the enjoyment of the community
• Create a long term, self-sustainable addition to Karratha’s arts community

Theatre Kimberley has been providing a range of opportunities that enrich and create a sense of wellbeing through community engagement, for over sixteen years in the region. Community cultural development practices are at the core of all the organisation’s undertakings, and these also capture the unique environment and artistic inspiration of the communities in which Theatre Kimberley exists. Theatre Kimberley’s specific objectives are to:

• Promote resource and develop performance theatre from the Kimberley for the Kimberley and Australia
• Foster and encourage training and professional development for communities in all aspects of theatre-based practice
• Develop collaborative creative partnerships
• Support social and academic learning programmes throughout the community

Theatre Kimberley’s excellent standing amongst the arts and community sectors alike reflects the organisation’s history of quality theatrical endeavours, the scale of productions and breadth of community engagement not matched by any other organisation in the North West, as well as assisting in the establishment of many local artists emerging careers. A social and emotional connection is created with Theatre Kimberley performers and participants who use these projects as a ‘spring board’ for many future theatre training and work, whether in the region, interstate and overseas. Theatre Kimberley offers training and career pathways to artists and facilitates wider understanding of the important role arts plays in making the Kimberley a great place to live. Theatre Kimberley works across ages and cultures. A whole-of-community approach includes extensive work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the region.

There has also been a particular focus in the organisation on developing youth programmes as well. Operating under the umbrella of Theatre Kimberley, Sandfly Circus was begun over ten years ago, providing opportunities for involving children and young people through its classes and community performances. Sandflies is currently made up of approximately 80 children and young people participating across four regular weekly classes. Sandfly Circus students work with a cohort of local trainers in Broome, and the skills of local trainers are often supplement by visiting artists in residence from other places, who are professional circus performers with a demonstrated record. There is one major Sandfly show each year along with smaller performances and workshops in the communities.

Sandflies addresses a number of needs in the local region. Importantly this includes reducing inequalities in access to programmes that enhance skill sharing and essential tools and that may assist young people to make healthy and creative life choices. Participating younger people also gain a chance to share respect and ideas, and to learn from older members through informal peer tutoring. In addition, and as above, young Sandflies are continued to be supported in their entry to further education and/or employment in the arts.