Raranga - The Weave: Theatre Kimberley’s 19th spectacular wearable art show

Following the success from their latest Bust Out Cabaret show, Theatre Kimberley is presenting another spectacular production with its Worn Art Revamped latest original, Raranga - The Weave. Held at the Broome Civic Centre on November 10 and 11, the extravaganza promises to captivate audiences with a mesmerising performance featuring a fusion of multicultural costumes, original dance, puppetry, music and circus. Drawing inspiration from the Maori art of weaving, the production showcases a breathtaking collection of woven wearable art pieces from Broome, the Southwest, and Interstate, as well as contributions from renowned Wearable Art award winners. Created by Broome local Lesley Marsh and directed by returning Perth artist Claudia Alessi, Raranga will take viewers on a journey that illustrates how connections over time weave together different cultures and communities The show will highlight how individuals play a pivotal role in these communities, which, in turn, supports them in leading healthier and happier lives. Theatre Kimberley artistic director Meredith Bell said the exciting, large-scale production brilliantly showcases the incredible talent of the region. “It connects multiple local and visiting artists, costume makers, and puppet artists with creative community members of all ages, backgrounds and experiences,” she said. “We are continually inspired by the passion and commitment of so many people coming together to create this rich celebration of culture, community and diversity. “Just one example is the repeat involvement of Yiramalay Studio School, through a residency led by Broome locals, Jacky Cheng and Greg Nichols. Over several weeks, Jacky and Greg have explored the same Raranga themes with Yiramalay students on Bunuba Country. “The students and mentors have made amazing, original wearable artworks, and will also perform in the show.” The production draws on elements and themes that inspire traditional weaving, such as animals, the ocean, colours, the earth, its people and cultures. Raranga show creator Lesley Marsh said the production evokes strong feelings of togetherness and interconnectedness of the weaving of people into their families and tribes. “Raranga is a concept greater than its translation, ‘to weave’,” she said. “It encompasses the weave of the cosmos, the intertwining of cultural beliefs along with the different strands of people - it connects and brings people together with their customs, vast community knowledge and collective wisdom. “It has created what Broome is today.” Audiences will also be treated to a range of pre-show traditional dances, including Broome’s Burrb Wanggarraji Nurlu, led by Yawuru woman Tara Gower, Broome Maori and Filipino communities, and an Irish dance by Broome Performing Arts Company. Tickets are on sale at Humantix for two nights only - Friday, November 10 and Saturday, November 11. Doors open at 6.15pm with pre-show dances from Weaving Cultures starting at 6.45pm. Show starts at 7.30pm at the Broome Civic Centre on Weld Street, Broome. Tickets $45 adults/$37 concession/$15 children.