Bangarra Dance Theatre, one of Australia’s leading performing arts companies, has announced that Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, has become its new Patron. The news, signifies a significant endorsement for the company renowned for sharing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture globally for over three decades.
For 36 years, Bangarra has been a vital force in the Australian cultural landscape, fostering understanding and celebration of First Nations cultures through powerful and evocative dance. The company warmly welcomes the Governor-General, whose patronage aligns with their core values of cultural exchange and collaboration.
Her Excellency, a highly respected businesswoman and community leader, brings a wealth of experience from her extensive career in diverse sectors including business, sport, environment, and the arts. Known for her exceptional service to the Australian community, her support for Bangarra is a powerful affirmation of their work.
Speaking about her new role, the Governor-General stated, “As a long-time audience member, I am proud to support Bangarra Dance Theatre. As Australia’s premiere First Nations performing arts company, Bangarra forms an integral part of the Australian cultural landscape, promoting learning, understanding and celebration of First Nations Cultures.”
Bangarra's impact extends far beyond the stage. The company's broad reach encompasses international, national, and regional touring performances, alongside extensive youth and education programs. These include the flagship Rekindling program, which has engaged 2,000 young people in communities since 2013, and their collaborative work with the NSW Department of Education’s The Arts Unit, delivering vital dance and performance workshops to NSW Public School Aboriginal Dance programs. Furthermore, Bangarra is dedicated to creating First Nations employment pathways through initiatives like the Russell Page Graduate Program and the David Page Music Fellowship.
The Governor-General highlighted the importance of these initiatives, adding, “Alongside performances on stage, the work that Bangarra does in communities across the country through its impactful youth and education programs is vital and inspiring. I am very much looking forward to supporting these important initiatives.”
Phillipa McDermott, Bangarra Chair, emphasised the significance of the appointment, seeing it as a strong commitment to First Nations storytelling and culture. “Her Excellency is deeply passionate about the purpose of Bangarra and First Nations storytelling. To have Australia’s Head of State as Patron of our Company represents a great step forward in embracing our shared history, and truth-telling. We welcome Her Excellency to the Bangarra Clan,” said Ms McDermott.
This new patronage marks an exciting chapter for Bangarra Dance Theatre, strengthening their mission to share the richness and diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures with audiences across Australia and the world.