Enjoying Yuldea at the Sydney Opera House
Our excursion to attend Bangarra Dance Theatre’s performance of Yuldea was fantastic. We were in the front row and joined Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students from all over NSW – some had travelled from as far as Muswellbrook to be there! The story traces time from the supernova to Federation and concentrates on the impact of nuclear testing on the mobs living around Yuldea (Ooldea) Soak and the nearby missions. At the end, the dancers were in a semi-circle behind a rope curtain, symbolising the continuing devastation of the environmental impact.
During the Q and A afterwards, the performers explained the meaning of their costumes. One spectacular dress was made to represent the red mallee tree and how its roots contain hidden water which Aboriginal people use to survive in the desert lands. We highly recommend everyone see this show.
Kacey: “The light motions were awesome!”
Kaileigh: “When the dancers told us the story was based on the Maralinga nuclear trials, I was amazed. We just read about that in our English class.”
Emily: “I loved the dancing.”
Audrey: “The elaborate costuming and choreography was good.”
Jessie: “I met a woman from my mob for the first time, I am very happy.”
Violet: “I liked the music.”
True: “I liked the set design.”
Jasmine: “The set design and use of lighting were out of this world. I am truly grateful for the experience.”
