SandSong: Stories from the Great Sandy Desert

An Australian national treasure, Bangarra is one of the most respected First Nations companies on the planet.

SandSong is a powerful, deeply moving story, drawing on stories, knowledge and memories of past to create a new narrative for Indigenous futures.

Between the 1920s and 1960s, many Aboriginal people were removed from their Country onto pastoral stations where they were forced into hard labour, usually for no wages and only minimal rations. Despite this displacement and cultural disruption, the Traditional Peoples of the Western Desert have maintained unbroken connection to Country, keeping songs, stories, kinship and lore strong.

SandSong is created in consultation with Wangkatjungka/Walmajarri Elders from the Kimberley and Great Sandy Desert regions, presenting a story of resilience and connection that is both specific and widely resonant – an ambitious, adroitly executed performance that equally “celebrates” and “pulls no punches” (Limelight).

This work honours the legacy of N. Lawford-Wolf (1967–2019) and her family – past, present and future.

Pre-show talk: Fri 17 March, 6.30pm
Frances Rings, Choreographer
Moderated by Ashley David

Click here to view the digital Sandsong programme

Recommended for ages 12+
Contains political and social themes, including aspects and depictions related to traumatic events suffered by First Nations Peoples. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander viewers are warned that this work contains images and voices of deceased persons

★★★★★ “SandSong is a treasure... I was left with an overwhelming sense of awe.” — Artshub

★★★★★ “Stunning on every level.” — Limelight

★★★★ “An astounding gift. Rich in history and spirit... You leave the performance knowing you’ve witnessed something deeply powerful and intimate.” — Bachtrack

“Sinuous, sinewy and transcendent: SandSong proves Bangarra is one of Australia’s best dance companies.” — The Conversation

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