‘Lighting the Dark’: A bold work by Chris Dyke and Dancenorth

Blockbuster superheroes, legendary rock icons and the world’s most beloved street artist will be celebrated in a groundbreaking dance work coming to Monash University Performing Arts Centres (MPAC), March 27, 2026.

Lighting the Dark, directed by Chris Dyke and commissioned by internationally-acclaimed contemporary dance company Dancenorth Australia, is the first mainstage dance work in Australia – and potentially the world – to be directed by an artist living with Down syndrome.

With the mesmerising Dancenorth ensemble by his side, Dyke transforms the stage into a portal where love and light illuminate the darkness. A masterpiece of collaboration and community, Lighting the Dark reminds audiences of the complexity of life’s challenges and the beauty found in resilience.

Inspired by Banksy, David Bowie and Freddie Mercury, Chris finds kinship in their revolutionary spirit, each serving as a reflection of his own vision. Lighting the Dark is a profound celebration of the human experience – a transcendent journey that traverses individual and universal truths in a dance to the very centre of what it means to be human.

“My heroes all work in the darkness – some fighting injustice and defending those who need it, and others making beautiful music and artwork under cover of night – so others can enjoy the light,” said Dyke. “These heroes reflect my own power back to me, and I hope everyone who sees the show will feel empowered by it, too.”

Dyke’s long-time collaborator and Dancenorth’s Co-Artistic Director Kyle Page said it’s been a joy for Dancenorth’s Ensemble and creative team to work alongside Chris to bring his vision to life.

“Chris is such a creative force, and he has brought an incredible clarity and instinct to what he wanted to achieve with his first full-length, ensemble piece.”.

Dyke’s dance practice is driven by his passion for dance, focused on mixing movement with light, film, music, and art in inclusive performance scenarios, with an empowering effect on cast and audience.

Recognised as one of Australia’s leading performing arts companies, Dancenorth Australia balances a dynamic regional presence with a commitment to creating compelling contemporary dance that tours the globe. Dancenorth has presented works in over 55 international arts festivals and venues around Australia and the world.

Lighting the Dark will be at The Ian Potter Centre for Performing Arts 27 March at 7:30 pm. Tickets are now on sale at monash.edu/mpac

Lighting the Dark Dress Rehearsl at Brisbane Festival, Chris Dyke. Image by David Kelly 2024