A new chapter in a long history of collaboration between ILBIJERRI Theatre Company and the University of Melbourne has been formalised in a new partnership, which will amplify both organisations’ shared commitment to fostering First Nations artistic excellence.
Formed in 1991, ILBIJERRI Theatre Company is Australia’s longest-running First Peoples theatre company. ILBIJERRI creates, presents and tours powerful and engaging theatre by First Peoples artists that gives voice to First Nations communities and cultures.
Through the recently formalised partnership, the University of Melbourne commits to supporting ILBIJERRI to amplify and achieve its mission by giving the theatre company access to world-class performing arts expertise from the Faculty of Fine Arts and Music and professional rehearsal and workshop spaces at its Southbank campus.
The partnership will be celebrated today at a special event during NAIDOC week, with a performance of Isobel Morphy-Walsh’s theatre piece Gunawarra Re-Creation, a powerful story of culture, memory and healing, presented by ILBIJERRI at Melbourne Theatre Company and directed by Andrea James, Artistic Director and CEO of ILBIJERRI.
The event also includes a panel discussion on forging professional career pathways for First Nations performing arts practitioners.
Artistic Director and CEO of ILBIJERRI, Andrea James said ILBIJERRI works on a reciprocal culture, based on familiar relationships.
“We proudly share our knowledge, expertise and resources with the University of Melbourne, strengthening a partnership that formalises longstanding creative and academic relationships. Together, we foster excellence in the performing arts sector that nurtures Blak storytelling.
“Whether taking formal or informal pathways, through incredible talent, sheer hard work and determination, First Peoples will always find a way to culturally express ourselves. With the wave of talented First Peoples artists and scholars benefiting from this remarkable partnership, I am excited for the continuation and advancement of innovative theatre practice and cultural expression to come.”
Tiriki Onus, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous) and Head of the Wilin Centre for Indigenous Arts and Cultural Development said ILBIJERRI Theatre Company occupies a special place in the hearts of our First Peoples’ community in Narrm and around this continent.
“Not only is ILBIJERRI our longest-running Indigenous theatre company, ILBIJERRI represents another link in an unbroken chain of performers and practitioners who have used theatre to amplify voice and contribute to the ongoing thrivance of First Peoples’ voices on these lands.
“It is an honour to formalise our partnership and contribute to the vital work of reminding us who we are and asking us to dream about who we might become together.”
