Tracks Dance expands Grey Panthers program

Last month, Darwin-based Tracks Dance announced that it’s growing! After years of performing for the Coomalie Community, the organisation started its first outreach Grey Panthers class in Batchelor. Led by Tracks choreographic alumni and Grey Panther performer Darryl Butler, the Coomalie GP’s meet weekly, learning the same repertoire as the Darwin troupe.

In its announcement, Tracks Dance wrote, “We look forward to joining these inspiring senior dancers at performances next year and watching the Grey Panthers go from strength to strength.”

The Grey Panthers, an undeniably unique Northern Territory dance troupe, began in 1988. It seeks to explore “what it means to part of the Aging Australian population and the role of the elder in contemporary Northern Territory Life.” With participants predominantly over the age of 60, the GP are positive role models for active ageing and lifelong learning.

The group performs regularly for special events, usually charitable, and especially for older adults. They’ve performed for health-specific organisations like the Arthritis Foundation, University of the Third Age, Rotary and Lions Clubs, the Anti-Cancer Foundation, Biggest Morning Tea and Council of the Aging (COTA). They regularly perform as part of Darwin’s arts and cultural calendar, including the popular Portrait of a Senior Territorian Art Award. They are also regularly used to act as seniors in TV ad spots. They’ve been seen in Darwin, Batchelor, Adelaide River, Katherine and Alice Springs.

For more information about the GP’s past performances visit tracksdance.com.au.

Photo by K. Beneforti, courtesy of Tracks Dance.