Indigenous culture on show for Canberra centenary

The nation’s capital turns 100 this year and Indigenous history and culture will be a major focus of the celebrations.

Canberra’s birthday is 12 March but there will be a host of events held throughout the year, supported by the Australian and ACT Governments.

One of the highlights will be the Yijala Yala Project’s performance Hip Bone Sticking Out. A mix of music, movement, story, video and song, the performance will share the cultural history of the remote Pilbara community of Roebourne.

It was developed in partnership with arts and social change company Big hART, who receive support from the Australian Government for their work helping Indigenous communities tackle issues such as domestic violence, homelessness and youth suicide by engaging people through art and helping them to tell their story.

Other Indigenous highlights of the Centenary of Canberra program include:

• The National Multicultural Festival Indigenous showcase, featuring Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu, Benny Walker, Stiff Gins and The Last Kinection
• Selling Yarns 3: Weaving the Nations Story, featuring a two day conference, fibre activities and a field trip to Tidbinbilla
• Bangarra Dance Company’s new production, Blak
• Indigenous art collections at the National Museum of Australia and the National Gallery of Australia.

For full details on the celebrations visit www.canberra100.com.au.