REVIEW: Gudirr Gudirr | Marrugeku and Yirra Yaakin

Gudirr Gudirr by Dalisa Pigram and Marrugeku Theatre turns struggle into triumph. Pigram, the unique force who has created and co-choreographed Gudirr Gudirr, also performs in this hour-long dance theatre missive that addresses a multitude of Australia’s sins and sorrows.Gudirr Gudirr is the perfect balance of political, visceral, and intellectual; and guess what – it’s also funny.

Pigram and her Belgian director/co-choreographer Koen Augustijnen make the most of Pigram’s special style, which is a delicate blend of precise muscular control and grace. They incorporate elements of martial arts, gymnastics, aerial acrobatics, dance floor moves and traditional Indigenous movements, creating a portrait in action of some of Australia’s deepest, oldest, and most current cultural rifts. It may seem a lot to tackle in one hour-long dance work, but Pigram and Augustijnen are clever and savvy creators, and they weave themes and ideas together seamlessly.

Read the full review on Australian Stage Online here.

CICELY BINFORD