Ginar is a Torres Strait Islander word meaning ‘dance’. It’s also a new Indigenous dance company, bringing the unique dances and songs of Australia’s far northeast across the country, and the world.
Ginar weaves together live dance, music, and documentary vignettes, presenting a vibrant tapestry of cultural and historical styling of this tropical region.
“It has been a true community effort to bring this show to life,” Ginar Founder/Director Bala Mosa says.
“To authentically capture the music, history, and cultural style of my home country, I had to not only draw on my own experiences, but also the experiences of many tribal groups.
“In fact, this dance company is probably one of the most multi-talented you’ll find anywhere. Just like in community, our dancers are also the musicians, singers, and crafters of costumes and drums.”
The concept of Ginar came about when Mosa was visiting home, finding himself in Cairns in 2000 where he reconnected with his mentor and other young Indigenous men who revived their dancing roots and discovered cultural tourism. Simultaneously, Mosa and another ‘bala’ (friend or brother) became involved with performing traditional dance in festivals and events in Australia and New Zealand.
These events sparked the origin of Ginar, which grew into a rich showcase featuring different families with their own series of dances.
Today, the company is addressing the issue of the underemployment and unemployment endemic in these communities – but not forgetting to tap into existing strengths and make a positive, intergenerational social impact.
“We want to show our young people that their own culture is just as deadly as the black cultures they see from overseas,” Mosa says.
“Collectively we have performed at the UN and at many festivals, and when we receive appreciation and admiration from audiences, it gives everyone in our community tremendous joy.
“Our goal is to bring Torres Strait musical heritage to the world. With Ginar, we are stepping boldly into the spotlight, and we are so proud of every element of culture in the show.”
Ginar Australia 2022 Tour Dates
13 October – Bunjil Place, Narre Warren (VIC)20 October – Empire Theatre (Toowoomba)
22 October – Frankston Arts Centre (VIC)
26 October – Albury Entertainment Centre (NSW)
