Dance teams from the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area are invited to apply for funding assistance to perform at the Darwin Festival and Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair in August 2018.

This initiative is part of the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) Dance Strategy and provides a great opportunity for local dance teams to develop their skills and experience with the goal of performing in front of large audiences in Darwin.

TSRA Chairperson, Mr Napau Pedro Stephen, said the TSRA’s Culture, Art and Heritage Programme was working closely with event coordinators to present these valuable and positive experiences.

“The Festival and Fair attract thousands of visitors to the Northern Territory, showcasing a spectacular diversity of work and a vibrant and immersive public program,” Mr Stephen said.

“They are a wonderful opportunity to connect visitors with the art and culture of our region.”

The successful dance team in the 2018 Dance Strategy will receive funding to cover the full cost of travel and, while previous experience is favourable, newcomers should not be discouraged to apply.

“Since 2011, the TSRA has supported dance teams through the Dance Strategy initiative to extend their experience at major national and international events, including the Yirramboi Melbourne Indigenous Arts Festival, WOMADelaide, and the Henley Festival in the United Kingdom,” Mr Stephen said.

Applications close Friday, 27 April 2018.  For more information about the TSRA’s Dance Strategy, or to obtain an application form contact the TSRA Acting Cultural Development Officer, Amanda Manuel, on 07 40 690 884 or amanda.manuel@tsra.gov.au.

Photos: Urab and Zogo Tudi Dance Team performing at the 2014 Darwin Festival. Images: Elise Derwin.