04 May 2021
Aboriginal State Dance Ensemble
The NSW Public Schools Aboriginal Dance Company is one of The Arts Unit’s specialist programs. It is a highly motivational, elite program that builds dance and choreographic skills, knowledge and cultural awareness. The audition process is highly competitive and places in the Company are highly sought after. In 2021 students will work with choreographers from the internationally renowned Bangarra Dance Theatre to film a performance of ‘Alchemy’ for the State Dance Festival and other events yet to be determined.
Chelsea Kelly (Yr 11) and Jamie Byrnes (Yr 10) have both accepted positions in this prestigious company. The audition process for selection required the students to choreograph a dance inspired by their connection to their culture and submit a Viva Voce.
Chelsea is a Wiradjuri woman who has been dancing since the age of four. Since arriving at James Fallon in Year 8, she has been an active member of the Wirajuri Dance troupe at James Fallon High School. Chelsea is still undecided about what she wants to do in the future, but she has plans of being an active member in the Aboriginal community through working with children either in Childcare or Healthcare.
Jamie dances at Evolve studios in Albury and is a member of the Year 10 Elective Dance class. He has been dancing for nine years and has a passion for Hip Hop and Contemporary Dance. He is a proud Wamba Wamba man. Acceptance into the company will aid Jamie in his dream of becoming a dancer. At the moment Jamie is currently completing his Certificate 2 in Dance at Evolve.
Congratulations to these two outstanding students on their selection and we wish them the best of luck as they begin this creative journey.
We look forward to seeing them Dance on Country.