Australia’s First Nations culture will be on display at the upcoming Laura Quinkan Dance Festival.
AS the dust settles from the Laura Rodeo and Races, the tiny town will fill again as thousands of people flock to the ancient bora grounds for the biennial Laura Quinkan Dance Festival.
Around 6000 people are expected to attend the three-day event as dance troupes from across the Cape and Torres Strait showcase stories through movement and song at Australia’s longest-running cultural festival.
“By showcasing traditional dances and rituals, the Laura Quinkan Indigenous Dance Festival not only educates and entertains, but also serves as a vital platform for passing on Indigenous knowledge to future generations,” said event director Fiona John.
“With our commitment to being drug and alcohol-free, the festival creates a safe and welcoming environment where families and individuals can enjoy the performances and immerse themselves in the richness of Indigenous traditions.”
Held from Friday, July 7 to Sunday, July 9 at the Ang-Gnarra festival grounds, the event kicks off with the official welcome parade and opening ceremony followed by the first round of competition.
The competition continues on Saturday, with the finals and winners of the Laura Dance Shield announced on Sunday.
Alongside the dance competition is a didgeridoo playing competition and the judging and display of the Cape York Art Awards.
There are a host of other activities over the weekend, including circus, basket weaving and didgeridoo making workshops, yarning circles, rock art tours and family movies.
There will also be a small forest of market stalls, with food focusing on traditional flavours alongside the more mainstream offerings, as well as health, information, art and craft stalls.
Visit www.lauraquinkanfestival.com.au for more information, including the full program, or to book tickets.
