The group from Orange will compete in the DanceRites First Nations dance competition at Sydney Opera House next weekend.
The all-female dance group will join more than 20 other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dance groups at the event, which celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dance and culture. Aged between 11 and 18, they will be one of the youngest groups performing in the event.
Orange Mayor Jason Hamling wished the dance group all the best heading into the competition, Australia’s national First Nations dance competition.
Walanmarra Mulungan dance group photographed by Dark Horse Photography
“I’m sure I speak for all Orange residents when I say what a huge achievement this is. I’m sure the group will do themselves, their families and our community proud,” Cr Hamling said.
The annual event will take place from 2pm on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 November in the forecourt of the Sydney Opera House at Bennelong Point, a First Nations meeting place for
tens of thousands of years.
Each group will present a cultural dance and song cycle, representing their local storytelling and language, with many also performing an optional ‘Wildcard’ dance to showcase their
unique style.
This year’s free event will be the largest since it began in 2015, featuring more than 350 performers from over 30 nations and clans across Australia.
Walanmarra Mulungan dance group was formed when a group of Indigenous girls showed an interest in learning traditional dance and had since grown in popularity, performing at many
local events.
Supported by Orange City Council’s Youth Services program, Walanmarra Mulungan is made up of students from Orange High School, Canobolas Rural Technology High School and James
Sheahan Catholic High School.
“I encourage everyone to watch the competition on YouTube or livestreamed on the Opera House website to support our local girls and the celebration of First Nations music, dance and
culture,” Cr Hamling said.
Groups will be assessed on authenticity, reclamation work, use of costumes and revitalised crafts and cultural materials, along with fusion of language and music.
People from all over the country will be able to livestream the event from 5pm on Sunday here:
The winners of the event will be announced at 7.15pm on Sunday 26 November.
