The Sydney Opera House welcomes the Sydney premiere of Song Spirals, a captivating dance work by Yolŋu artist and choreographer Rosealee Pearson, on 4 September at 7:00 pm and 6 September at 1:30 pm in the Studio. This immersive performance, adapted from the Prime Minister’s Award-winning non-fiction book by the Gay’wu group of women, weaves together ancient Yolŋu rhythms, songs, and stories with bold contemporary artistry, offering audiences a profound journey into the language, culture, and Country of North East Arnhem Land. Tickets start at $34.90 and are available now at sydneyoperahouse.com.
Song Spirals, which premiered at Darwin Festival in 2024, brings the Yolŋu women’s practice of Milkarri—crying songlines—to life through the expressive movements of dancers Henrietta Baird, Maddison Fraser, Brianna Kemmerling, and Harlisha Newie-Joe. Rooted in the Yolŋu Matha language, the choreography transforms dancers’ bodies into a canvas for shaping words, rhythms, and ancestral narratives, set against mesmerizing projections by video artist Naina Sen. Composer Andrew Grimes’ vibrant original score blends traditional Milkarri rhythms with contemporary compositions, creating a dynamic soundscape that complements the performance’s stunning visuals and movement.
Rosealee Pearson, a Manggalili woman from Yirrkala, brings her extensive experience as a dancer, choreographer, director, and cultural consultant to this interdisciplinary work. A graduate of NAISDA Dance College, Pearson has worked across dance, theater, and festival coordination. Song Spirals bridges ancient Yolŋu traditions with modern dance, inviting audiences to connect with the heart of Yolŋu Country through a vivid interplay of movement, music, and projections.
This powerful work celebrates the enduring strength of Yolŋu culture while offering a contemporary lens on its traditions. Song Spirals is a testament to Pearson’s vision as an artist and her commitment to sharing Yolŋu stories with the world. Don’t miss this spellbinding experience at the Sydney Opera House. Secure your tickets today at sydneyoperahouse.com for performances on 4 September at 7:00 pm and 6 September at 1:30 pm.
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