Stephen Page talks Infinity

Next week we will welcome Stephen Page and the dancers of Bangarra Dance Theatre into the studios to resume rehearsals for Warumuk – in the dark night, part of the Infinity program. Here, Stephen tells us about his creative process and how it was inspired by his connections with Yolngu communities.

I’ve always been fascinated with Aboriginal astronomy and the timeless mystery of the night sky. I was in Yirrkala, which is an Aboriginal township in North East Arnhem Land, in November last year and had many conversations with my Yolngu families about the meaning of the constellations.

Up North, as the sun sets and the canopy of stars is revealed, the night-time experience can be overwhelming. Having Jake (Nash, set designer) on our Bangarra tour sharing time for reflection about Warumuk – in the dark night was such a great way to begin the creative process.

Since returning in December I’ve been working closely with my brother David (Page, composer) who has been working long hours in his recording studios combining the sounds for live orchestra with traditional language, song and soundscapes. As this process draws to a close it’s now my turn to translate the story onto the bodies of the dancers in response to the richness of his music.

Usually we work alongside each other as the choreography and music come together, so it’s been a great challenge to complete the music ahead of rehearsals. This timing was needed so that David’s arrangements could be orchestrated. With Jacob’s beautiful set designs in construction and Jennifer’s costume designs taking shape, we’re all excited about getting into the rehearsal room next week.

Having Kathy Balngayngu Marika close to me at the Bangarra studios as an artist in residence helps us maintain our strong connections with traditional Yolngu culture. Through my relationship with Kathy I’ve learnt about the myriad of creation myths reflected within the constellations of stars. The process now is for me to digest and pay homage to the integrity of these stories, and shape them into a contemporary form.

Warumuk – in the dark night is my fifth work for The Australian Ballet and the third time we’ve collaborated with both companies. I’m excited to have the two different groups of dancers in the same studio and to watch our story evolve.

See Warumuk – in the dark night as part of the Infinity program, which opens in Melbourne season on 24 February and is on sale now.