Leading First Nations choreographer Peta Strachan brings her all-female Jannawi Dance Clan to the Sydney Opera House for the world premiere of Garrigarrang Badu as part of Sydney Festival 2026. Meaning “saltwater / freshwater” in the Dharug language, the work celebrates the flow of Country from mountains to sea, blending traditional and contemporary dance to explore the strength, resilience, and cultural legacy of First Nations women across Australia.
Presented in association with Sydney Festival and Sydney Opera House, and executive produced by FORM Dance Projects with Arts & Cultural Exchange (ACE), Garrigarrang Badu reflects decades of cultural continuity and leadership. Peta Strachan says, “This work honours the strength of our ancestors and celebrates the women who continue to shape culture today.” Following its development showing at Sydney Festival 2023, the production returns in full form for a limited three-performance season.
A special Dharug Knowledge Holders Talk, facilitated by Cathy Craigie, will follow the Saturday 1 pm performance, giving audiences unique insight into the stories, language, and cultural knowledge embedded in the work.
Performance Details:
Dates: Part of Sydney Festival 2026, three performances only
Venue: Sydney Opera House
Bookings: https://aceinc.org.au/whats-on/garrigarrang-badu-2/
