DJAADJAWAN DANCERS

Image by Angi High

The Djaadjawan Dancers are a traditional female Aboriginal dance group from the Yuin Nation of NSW, Australia. Djaadjawan means ‘sand’ in Dhurga language, and the group express traditional culture, beliefs and practice through dance and song.

The group includes girls, women and Elders from multiple generations from Wallaga Lake, Narooma and La Perouse in NSW. They have been part of Giiyong Festival since the first event in 2018, mentoring and encouraging other dance groups, not just in dance but in cultural practices - including the creation of traditional dance costumes - wearable art - incorporationg weaving, feathers and shell work.

Since their formation in 2015 by Walbunja woman Sharon Mason, the Djaadjawan Dancers have earned their place as one of the most sought after Aboriginal cultural performance groups in the State. They perform regularly at respected festivals and events around Australia, and have danced at the Opera House, the 200-year Celebration of Westpac Corp, the opening of Barangaroo precinct in Sydney and the National Folk Festival in Canberra. Most recently they have produced their own hybrid theatre production BARANGUBA.

When the Djaadjawan Dancers perform, they are dancing, singing, sharing, wearing and expressing their culture. Each dance tells a story, or serves a specific purpose, such as their Welcome Dance, Healing Dance or Fishing Dance. Their performances are the height of storytelling and are often particular to women.

Image by Kat Patton

Image by Kat Patton