Bangarra Dance Theatre is thrilled to announce that Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, has been named the company’s Patron. For 36 years, Bangarra, one of Australia’s premier performing arts companies, has shared the rich stories and cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with audiences across Australia and beyond.
Her Excellency brings a distinguished record of leadership and service to this role. A respected businesswoman and community advocate, she has held executive and governance positions across diverse sectors, including business, sport, environmental initiatives, the arts, policy, and not-for-profit organizations, making her a fitting champion for Bangarra’s mission to celebrate and preserve Indigenous cultural heritage through dance.
The Governor-General said, “As a long-time audience member, I am proud to support Bangarra Dance Theatre. As Australia’s premiere First Nations performing arts company, Bangarra forms an integral part of the Australian cultural landscape, promoting learning, understanding and celebration of First Nations Cultures.”
Bangarra Dance Theatre’s influence spans Australia and the globe through its acclaimed performances and transformative community initiatives. The company captivates audiences with international, national, and regional touring productions while fostering cultural connection through extensive youth and education programs. Its commitment to First Nations talent shines in initiatives like the Russell Page Graduate Program and the David Page Music Fellowship, which provide vital employment pathways.
At the heart of Bangarra’s community engagement is its flagship youth program, Rekindling, which has empowered over 2,000 young people in communities since 2013. Additionally, through a partnership with the NSW Department of Education’s Arts Unit, Bangarra delivers the NSW Public School Aboriginal Dance program, offering both online and in-person dance and performance workshops to inspire and educate students across the state.
“Alongside performances on stage, the work that Bangarra does in communities across the country through its impactful youth and education programs is vital and inspiring. I am very much looking forward to supporting these important initiatives,” said the Governor-General.
Bangarra Chair, Phillipa McDermott said that the appointment demonstrates a strong commitment to First Nations storytelling and culture.
“Her Excellency is deeply passionate about the purpose of Bangarra and First Nations storytelling. To have Australia’s Head of State as Patron of our Company represents a great step forward in embracing our shared history, and truth-telling. We welcome Her Excellency to the Bangarra Clan,” said Phillipa McDermott.
Visit bangarra.com.au to learn more.
Share this:
