Australian Dance History

Uluru, sacred rock to the Australian Aboriginals

Australia is a modern, highly developed nation that boasts both ancient traditions and modern artistic innovations. Known for natural wonders such as kangaroos, koalas, and the Outback, Australia also provides cultural offerings on par with the best in Europe and the U.S. Australia's is home to diverse dance traditions including colonial European folk dances, ancient Aboriginal cultures, cutting-edge modern dance troupes and internationally respected classical ballet companies.

Aboriginal Ceremonies

Australian Sunset

The Aboriginal Australians are the original inhabitants of the continent/country of what is now Australia. Few remain after the government's policy of taking Aboriginal children to mix with white settlers and breed the race out of existence. The Aboriginal people who remain are the caretakers of the ancient belief systems. The Aboriginal culture is considered the oldest continuous culture in the world. The religion of the Aboriginals is interlinked with their dance traditions, art and the natural landscape of Australia. The dances of the Aboriginal peoples are sacred ceremonies. Dances are accompanied by didgeridoos and vocalizations.

Traditional Cultures

The Sydney Opera House hosts many types of dance performances

Australia is made up of numerous immigrant communities. In 2010, 24 percent of Australian residents were counted as being foreign-born. People from all over the world have made Australia their home and traditional cultures thrive. Many folk dances from different cultures remain alive in Australia.

Bush Dancing

Towards the middle of the 20th century, those of European descent formed an eclectic style of folk dances called "bush dancing." This came about from a desire to reach back to the European cultural traditions of the past as well as to create a dance form that could be considered "Australian." Though based on European folk dance forms, the mix from different countries' folk dance traditions culminates in a uniquely Australian art form.

Classical Ballet

Classical ballet in Australia first became popular on a large scale when introduced in the early 20th century, first by the international tours of Russian dancer Anna Pavlova and then when the Ballet Russes toured the nation. These lavish performances lead to an immense interest in ballet and today, Australia is home to various world class ballet companies. The Australian Ballet was founded in 1962 and today is considered one of the greatest companies in the world. The company performs works from the classical canon, as well as contemporary and experimental works.

The Future of Australian Dance

Australia is also home to many cutting-edge contemporary and modern dance companies. The Australia Council funds classical, contemporary and folkloric works in an effort to preserve traditions and encourage the development of new dance works in Australia. The council also funds scholarships for Australian students to pursue dance opportunities in influential dance communities in The United States and Europe. This promotes the exchange of ideas and helps to maintain Australia's reputation as one of the world's central points of dance innovation. Some 20th and 21st century modern dance companies blend choreography with Aboriginal dances in an attempt to restore and preserve what is left of Aboriginal culture.

References

• Culture and Recreation Australia: Dance Traditions of Australia
• Aboriginal Art: Visual and Religious Culture of Australian Aboriginies
• "The Illustrated World's Religions: A Guide t our Wisdom Traditions"; Huston Smith;
• The Australian Ballet:History
• Australian Heritage Dance: History of Bush Dancing

Resources

• Earthly Delights: History of Australian Dances
• Australia Dancing: Information on Dance in Australia