Acclaimed Australian indigenous dancer in Colombo on Monday

Saturday, 22 June 2013 06:19 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Acclaimed Australian Indigenous dancer and choreographer, Albert David, will visit Sri Lanka from 24-26 June for a series of workshops and a performance. The Australian High Commissioner Robyn Mudie said: “We are delighted to bring a performer of Albert David’s calibre to Sri Lanka. This is an opportunity to present to Sri Lankan audiences some of the rich cultural heritage of our indigenous community. Albert David’s visit will also be an opportunity for our two countries to strengthen cultural links.”

Born and raised in the Torres Strait Islands, Albert David’s dance creations incorporate Aboriginal traditional dance. He has spent time with indigenous communities throughout Australia and, with the permission of Aboriginal elders, draws on these distinct cultures and his own Torres Strait Islands community to teach and choreograph contemporary dance. Albert David is a former member of the internationally-renowned Bangarra Dance Theatre, which toured extensively in community areas and around the world. He has also performed with the Australian ballet as a Guest Artist. During his visit to Sri Lanka, Albert David will conduct workshops for dance students from schools and universities to promote greater understanding of Australian Indigenous culture. Theoretical and practical elements will help Sri Lankan students understand the meaning and symbolism in Australian indigenous dance. Albert David will also hold a workshop and performance with the Abhina Academy of Performing Arts. Albert David’s visit continues the Australian High Commission’s efforts to showcase Australian indigenous culture and Australia’s multicultural society to Sri Lankan audiences. The High Commission hosted the indigenous art exhibitions ‘Message Stickin’ March-April 2013 and ‘Balgo’ in 2011, and screened the award-winning movie ‘Bran Nue Daein’ in Colombo, Jaffna and Kandy in 2012. The Australian High Commission acknowledges the support of Cinnamon Grand Hotel as the partnering hotel for the visit.