Miriki Performing Arts 16 McCormack Street, Mooroobool, Queensland 4870

Miriki Performing Arts is an extraordinary institution located in the vibrant city of Cairns, Australia. Situated at 16 McCormack Street, Mooroobool, this establishment stands as a point of interest for both locals and visitors alike.

At Miriki Performing Arts, the focus lies on nurturing and showcasing the immense talent of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dancers, aged between 11 and 20 years old. These gifted individuals are provided with a unique opportunity to learn and grow alongside mentors such as the esteemed Artistic Director, Pauline Lampton (Elder). Together, they share a deep passion for expressing their Indigenous heritage and history through the art of dance.

The primary mission of Miriki Performing Arts is to encourage and empower Indigenous Australian youth to create, choreograph, and perform their Australian Indigenous heritage through captivating theatre-based performances. Each original choreography is meticulously crafted, drawing inspiration from true stories that beautifully capture the essence of Australian Indigenous history. It is a profound honor for the Miriki performers to present these stories, as they serve as a bridge between the past and the present, connecting audiences to the rich cultural tapestry of Australia's Indigenous heritage.

Miriki Performing Arts holds a deep respect for the wisdom and knowledge passed down from generation to generation by Indigenous elders. By collaborating with elders from various nations, including Yidinji, Wiradjuri, Bundjalung, Arukubindi, Giddamay, and descendants from Tafea Province who are now Australian South Sea Island descendants, Miriki has become a vessel for sharing intimate and personal stories that reflect the elders' storyline and cultural identity. This institution takes great pride in being entrusted with the responsibility of preserving and showcasing these precious narratives.

In 2019, Miriki Performing Arts had the privilege of a residency at the esteemed Tanks Arts Centre, made possible through the generous sponsorship of the Cairns City Council. This residency brought together 36 young people from Cairns and its surrounding regional areas, including Kuranda, the Cook Islands, Bowen, and Townsville. The culmination of this program was a breathtaking performance of a co-created dance work, exploring thought-provoking themes such as society and young people, citizenship, resilience, and positive life choices.

Miriki Performing Arts is also actively involved in the Murama Youth Summit, a resilience-based cultural intervention program that draws strength from Aboriginal culture. This transformative program focuses on the fundamental values of belonging, kinship, and traditional wisdom, acting as a catalyst for healing within communities. By reweaving the cultural connectedness between individuals, families, and the community, Miriki aims to empower and uplift the next generation.

As you visit Miriki Performing Arts at 16 McCormack Street, Mooroobool in Cairns, Queensland, you will be transported on a remarkable journey through time. This institution stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of our ancestors, honoring the Traditional Owners of the land throughout Australia and recognizing their continued connection to the land, waters, and community. Miriki Performing Arts pays the utmost respect to these custodians of the land and their cultures, as well as to the Elders, past, present, and emerging.

To learn more about Miriki Performing Arts and their awe-inspiring work, please visit their website at www.indigenise.com.