75,000 years in the making

THE curtain comes down on the Spiegeltent Hobart season this weekend — but not before acclaimed indigenous dance troupe Djuki Mala presents a show 75,000 years in the making.

Originally from Elcho Island in Northern Arnhem Land, the Djuki Mala “chooky dancers” have been touring the world for the past decade, thrilling audiences with a live show that fuses traditional Yolngu culture, dance and storytelling with elements of contemporary pop culture.

Incorporating hip-hop, show tunes, Zorba The

Greek and more, the group’s current show recounts their history, sharing some of the intimate moments and turning points that have shaped their career.

Djuki Mala made their Hobart debut in the Spiegeltent early last year, before going on to perform sold-out seasons everywhere from Sydney to Edinburgh to China during 2017.

“Coming from a small remote island, going overseas and travelling around the world performing and sharing our culture really inspires the younger generations coming up,” dancer Baykali Ganambarr said.

“It’s good to be a role model and a great leader, it makes us really feel proud.”

Djuki Mala were originally scheduled to perform twice in the Spiegeltent this week, but a third show has been added to cope with demand. They’ll be on stage from 4.30pm today, and 2.30pm and 6.30pm tomorrow. Tickets are $45.

Comedian Peter Helliar and Perth band The Tommyhawks also perform in the Spiegeltent tonight, along with headline act Limbo: Unhinged. ARIA Award-winning blues and roots duo The Audreys close the Spiegeltent season with a show at 8.30pm Sunday. Go to www.spiegeltenthobart.com for details and bookings.