Meet the Creatives

"From The Gadhu" is a captivating First Nations-led creation performed by The Australian Ballet Education and Outreach team. Inspired by the profound cultural symbolism of whale migration, this 20-minute contemporary duet delves into themes of care for Country, intergenerational knowledge sharing, and the delicate balance of ecosystemic symbiosis.

This performance is specially created for school and community settings, aiming to illuminate the deep relationships that First Nations people share with the land, oceans and its ecosystems. When the character of Mischief Maker disregards the wisdom of the Lore Keeper, the impact of this disharmony is echoed through the movements, music and costumes crafted to educate and inspire young minds.

Music by Tristan Field (Walbunja, Bidjigal, and Sri Lankan), choreography by Ella Havelka (Wiradjuri), and artwork by Latoya Brown (Krauatungalung, Djiringanj, Walbunja, and Bidjigal), add depth and authenticity to this modern adaptation of a narrative that has been passed down by Bidjigal and Darrawhal people for thousands of years.

Hear from composer and cultural consultant Tristan Field as he shares insights into the creative process behind bringing this powerful narrative to life.