The Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project is thrilled to announce that Sydney Dance Company Bangarra will bring its Rekindling Dance Program to Shepparton in 2024. The Rekindling program was established in 2013, and over the past decade, a dedicated team of dancers has been delivering the program to communities across Australia, fostering cultural connections and storytelling through dance.

During their recent visit to Shepparton, the Rekindling team, led by Youth Program Director Sidney Saltner, provided an information session to students, which included a workshop offering students a glimpse of the program's essence. Sidney also emphasised the numerous and varied career paths that the arts can offer.

Program facilitator Amy De Paola from the Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project said, "It was great to see Sidney and the team engage with the students. They are clearly very skilled and experienced in working with young people, and the students responded exceptionally well."

During their visit to Shepparton, the Rekindling team also spent time at the Rumbalara Elders Facility to meet with residents. As the program is centred on community collaboration, meeting with Elders is integral to the program process, as the Elders will provide the stories that will be woven into the dances the students will learn. The program also ensures respect for local cultural protocols and permissions.

In 2024, the Rekindling program will be delivered over three gatherings between February and May and is open to 30 secondary students. Sidney is looking forward to returning to Shepparton to commence the program, saying, "Historically, the Yorta Yorta community has contributed a lot to the arts, so we are very much looking forward to nurturing the next generation of talent."

Those interested, including current grade 6 students, Elders, and community members, are welcome to participate and are encouraged to contact Amy De Paola from the Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project at adepaola@gslp.com.au.