The inspirational new indigenous theatrical work, Bukal, has started it long-awaited tour of Far North Queensland to help transform young lives thanks to a $117, 389 federal government grant.
Bukal highlights through theatre social justice warrior, traditional owner, elder, mother and internationally recognised academic Henrietta Marrie’s extraordinary life on stage.
Federal Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch, who attended the production in Wujal Wujal last night, said the project would go a long way towards helping indigenous communities, particularly young people, to reframe negative stories about their identity through theatre.
“I had the pleasure of attending the production last night and put simply, it was amazing and extremely powerful,” Mr Entsch said.
“This is a story of resilience, of passion, of great adventure and never giving up but most importantly one of connection.
“Furthermore, this project teaches young indigenous people how to create their own positive stories, while also developing their creative skills and gaining valuable experience about how to produce a show.”
Federal Regional Development, Territories and Local Government Minister John McVeigh said the Bukal tour would hold week-long residency workshops in 10 schools and communities across Far North Queensland.
“The Just Us Theatre Ensemble will work with local Indigenous youth to teach them performance, theatre production and team work skills, which is a great example of how our regional grants can be used to help develop participation in the arts,” Dr McVeigh said.
“The project is based on parts of the existing education curriculum focused on developing cultural identity and future pathways for young Indigenous students.
“The Just Us Theatre Ensemble has been working on presenting indigenous stories since 2012, and we are proud to collaborate with them to help create a positive future for all young indigenous Queenslanders.”
