REVIEW – BLAK

Bangarra’s new piece, Blak, is a voyage through culture to discover identity. Told in three parts, it combines edgy, urban influenced music with stark sets and powerful choreography.

Scar takes the male dancers in a twisting turning rite of passage. They writhe and grapple with the prospect of manhood. The dancers struggle with the pain, the confusion and the conflict of modernity.

Yearning tells the story of women. Produced by Stephen Page, it showcases beauty and sadness. Milk crates and a telephone become props as the dancers tell their tale. Particularly poignant is the emotive exploration of domestic violence which awed the audience with its depth and power.

Finally, Keepers brings the performers together in a celebration of tradition. It sings of victory and love.

Blak is a profoundly challenging and engaging work which showcases the best of Bangarra and successfully uses Indigenous music and dance to create contemporary appeal. (LR)

Until Jun 29, Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, $69-89, (02) 9250 7111, sydneyoperahouse.com