Garrigarrang Badu – Sydney Festival 2026
Jannawi means “with me, with you” in the Dharug language — a gesture of welcome, connection, and solidarity. For more than ten years, the all-female Jannawi Dance Clan have combined traditional and contemporary dance to ensure Dharug songlines continue to flourish.
Their most ambitious creation yet, Garrigarrang Badu, is conceived and choreographed by artistic director Peta Strachan in collaboration with the Jannawi dancers. Women from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Nations across Australia unite in this large-scale tribute to Dharug Country, the land where they live, create, and dance.
Garrigarrang (“salt water”) and Badu (“fresh water”) explores the story of Dharug nation, stretching from the mountains to the sea, and honours the crucial role women have played for thousands of years in nurturing and preserving Dharug culture. It is a moving reflection on the deep connections between land, body, and spirit, highlighting women’s creativity, resilience, and strength.
This work is a living continuation of culture, safeguarding the future of Dharug language, stories, and dance. Following a celebrated development showing at Sydney Festival 2023, Garrigarrang Badu returns in 2026 in full form at the Sydney Opera House.
Post Show Talk
After the 1pm performance on Saturday 10 January, audiences are invited to join a 60-minute Dharug Knowledge Holders Panel, facilitated by Cathie Craigie. Knowledge holders will share insights into the cultural storytelling at the heart of Garrigarrang Badu, discussing the making of the work, language revitalisation, truth-telling, river systems, and Dharug lore. This is a rare chance to listen, learn, and connect with the voices behind the performance.
— Part of Sydney Festival 2026