PIONEERS bring epic dance production to Sydney

A group of award-winning young performers will stage an outdoor dance and theatre production next week as part of the City of Sydney’s Art & About program.

Set against the backdrop of Customs House, the production chronicles the formation and triumphs of one of Australia’s most fearless dance crews, PIONEERS.

The free, 60 minute production is a celebration of courage, diversity and the vibrant spirit of Australia’s young artists, and aims to give voice to young people often culturally underrepresented in the arts.

Performing to a high-energy soundtrack created by Jamaica Moana, the production will span a spectrum of dance styles including dancehall, ‘waacking’ (street moves), vogueing and urban choreography.

“I’m excited that for the first time in more than four years we’re featuring an outdoor dance production as part of our Art & About program,” Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore AO said.

“Customs House forecourt is a wonderful location to stage the show and easily accessible for everyone.

“I invite everyone to come along and enjoy this immersive experience that celebrates the beauty of diversity, the power of expression and the courage to defy conventions.”

Following international recognition and victory at the renowned Hip Hop International dance championships, the members of PIONEERS have taken their unique performance style across Australia and made a lasting impact on young people within the Sydney dance community.

PIONEERS creative producer, Gabriela Green Olea, said audiences will be treated to soundscapes and movement pieces that showcase life growing up in western Sydney, particularly as queer, culturally diverse young people.

“PIONEERS unites young, diverse talents, embarking on a journey that delves deep into the realms of dance, activism and identity,” Gabriela said.

“Through a contemporary lens, the performance explores the intricate social, psychological and physical relationships that individuals share with public spaces.

“The performance aims to reinvigorate and reinforce themes of optimism, freedom and the urgent necessity of survival in the 21st century.”

Three performances of PIONEERS will take place at Customs House forecourt at 7:30pm on Thursday 7, Friday 8 and Saturday 9 March.

For more details go to whatson.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Art & About Sydney is the City of Sydney’s year-round temporary art program. For more information go to artandabout.com.au

Media contact, Elaine Kelly on 0477 362 550 or email [email protected]

For interviews with Lord Mayor Clover Moore contact [email protected]