PLATFORM

BlakDance is pleased to announce Platform, an initiative of Abbotsford Convent and BlakDance, a First Nations-led creative development program for multi-generational choreographers and contemporary dance artists. 

Djirri Djirri dancers Mikayla George (Wurundjeri, Dja Dja wurrung and Ngurai illum wurrung) and Kiera Hunter (Wurundjeri and Ngurai illum wurrung) under the leadership of Dr Mandy Nicholson (Wurundjeri, Dja Dja wurrung and Ngurai illum wurrung), will join choreographers Vicki Van Hout (Wiradjuri), Joel Bray (Wiradjuri), Carly Sheppard (Takalaka) to develop, produce, share and exhibit a diverse range of new contemporary dance works and expressions.

Photographer and visual artist Jody Haines (Palawa) will work alongside the choreographers to document the creative process, presented by Abbotsford Convent as an exhibition in St Heliers Street Gallery in 2025.

Platform is produced by Senior Producer, Geoffrey Masters (Bidjara).

Stage One:

In August 2024, the choreographers will gather for a two-week residency at Abbotsford Convent, to develop concepts for new work. Artists and Leaders will engage with Elders through a consultative process towards agreed protocols and permissions. At the end of the residency, through a closed and informal sharing, feedback from Elders, peers and invited guests will inform Stage Two of the program.  

Stage Two:

In April / May 2025, choreographers will undertake an intensive 3-4 week Creative Development, and share outcomes with sector representatives. Platform will offer the opportunity to develop a bespoke Market Development Plan to support choreographers to reach target audiences for their new works.

Platform is an initiative of BlakDance and the Abbotsford Convent made possible with the support of the Australian Government’s Indigenous Languages and Arts Program, the Victorian Government through Creative Victoria, Arts House and Dancehouse.