Bunjil Place, in association with BlakDance, Asia TOPA and Arts Centre Melbourne, will present the ground-breaking new commission Bunyi Bunyi Bumi in the Bunjil Place Studio from 20 – 23 February 2025.
Bunyi Bunyi Bumi replaces tired narratives of trade and Empire with truth, resistance, and resilience. Thrumming with dance, body percussion, syncopated rhythms, and stunning visuals, the performance unites Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, Tamil and Indonesian artists in a joyous rebuke of colonial amnesia.
Co-directed by trailblazing choreographer raymond d. blanco (Yadhaigana and Erub) and professor of dance Dr Priya Srinivasan (Tamil) and co-devised with awarded choreographer Waangenga Blanco (Meriam and Pajinka Wik), renowned educator and performer Alfira O’Sullivan (Acehnese), maestro Murtala (Acehnese) and awarded dancer Tyrel Dulvarie (Yirrganydji), featuring visual design by celebrated conceptual artist Vernon Ah Kee (Kuku Yalanji, Waanji, Yidinji, Gugu Yimithirr), this contemporary work uses immersive choreography to celebrate the interconnectedness of cultures.
“Bunyi Bunyi Bumi brings together resilience, identity, and transformation, re-threading First Nations Australian and Acehnese connections across the Indian Ocean,” said Merindah Donnelly, Co-CEO and Executive Producer of BlakDance.
“With powerful choreography and cross disciplinary storytelling this dance work delves into the impacts of globalisation and colonisation, bringing together extraordinary artists from rich cultural perspectives,” said Donnelly.
“Bunjil Place is proud to support and host the world premiere of Bunyi Bunyi Bumi in the City of Casey. It’s so exciting to have such a significant premiere right here in our community,” said Mayor of the City of Casey, Cr Stefan Koomen.
“It’s through our valued partnership with Asia TOPA, that we can bring this powerful performance to our community. It’s a privilege to be part of this ground-breaking BlakDance production.”
Established in 2005 as a direct outcome of the watershed National Indigenous Dance Forum, BlakDance is a national industry organisation for First Nation contemporary dancers and choreographers.
BlakDance is based on Turrbal and Yuggera Country in Meanjin (Brisbane) at the Judith Wright Centre. BlakDance is a self-determined, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisation, governed by a voluntary Board and by a dedicated BlakDance Cultural Council.
Bunyi Bunyi Bumi
Studio – Bunjil Place, 2 Patrick Northeast Drive Narre Warren
Performances: 20 – 23 February 2025
Bookings: www.bunjilplace.com.au
Asia TOPA runs from 20 February – 10 March 2025. For more information, visit: www.asiatopa.com.au for details.
Image: Bunyi Bunyi Bumi – photo by Tiffany Garvie Photography