The Kukunarri Show - Tiwi Islands

Nguiu, Tiwi Islands

This project was developed with the Nguiu community, with Barry Ferrier being invited to put together a music/video component and Tracks Dance invited to devise and direct the performance aspects. The performance dealt with the issues identified by the Nguiu community that caused the high youth suicide rate in their community. Tracks directed this movement and visual performance working closely with the community and through the Xavier Catholic Education Centre Nguiu Community. Bill Davis and Barry Ferrier produced a half-hour television show that was presented on the BRACKS community TV system.

The KUKANARRI SHOW (a traditional word that describes celebrations when the whole community comes together) featured many stories from the community, including its key dreamings and creation stories, its history since colonisation and its current joys. Tracks worked with the children in the local schools and other community groups. The performance took place in an area that was both under cover and outdoors and incorporated large puppets, images and short dances.

Project Stages:

• research difficulties and health problems occuring in Nguiu
• recruit directors, musical , dance and design personell
• create and rehearse show. write and rehearse anthem. Create daily Television shows.
• perform kukanarri Show
• survey audience and senior students for reactions
• cut 20 hours of video (daily television shows) into 1 hour documentary. create video of performance

Creative Personnel

Barry Ferrier, Bill Davis, David McMicken and Tim Newth, Brian Wappett, 

Performers

Students from Xavier Community Education Centre, Nguiu community members

Tracks Dance 1998

Co-Artistic Directors: Sarah Calver, David McMicken, Tim Newth
Administrator: Liann Stevenson, Joelene Paterson, Bong Ramillo

[under Ausdance NT]