Expanding Aboriginal dance horizons in NSW

Are you an independent Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander dance artist based in NSW? Are you keen to develop and sustain new career pathways, work with leading Indigenous artists, build your professional skills and networks, and share creative ideas? Then Birrang is a program of opportunities that is not to be missed.

Focused on expanding Indigenous dance horizons in NSW, Birrang is a new professional dance development initiative supported by Arts NSW, coordinated by Ausdance NSW, Regional Arts NSW and Bangarra Dance Theatre in partnership with NAISDA Dance College, Carriageworks and the Australian Film, Television & Radio School (AFTRS).

Commencing in 2013, Birrang is dedicated to building capacity within the NSW Indigenous independent dance sector and providing professional creative development opportunities for NSW Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander dance artists. In this first year of the initiative, the Birrang program will include: a Creative Lab from 29 April to 3 May at Carriageworks, a Creative Business Course from 22 to 24 May at AFTRS, a Dance Residency from 23 September to 5 October at NAISDA and a Market Development and Enterprise Workshop in November.

Applications are now available for the first three programs. The applications for the Market Development and Enterprise Workshop will open in October. Also, to be eligible for the Dance Residency note that applicants must have completed either the Creative Lab and/or Creative Business Course.

Officials encourage artists to apply for all activities. Application forms can be downloaded from the Birrang website.

For applicants based in Sydney that want more information, email Ausdance NSW at birrang@dance.net.au or call 02 9256 4800. For applicants based in regional or remote NSW, contact Regional Arts NSW via email at bradley@regionalartsnsw.com.au or by calling 02 9270 2507.