Frances Rings leads Bangarra Dance Theatre in 2024 to share First Nations stories across Australia

Frances Rings has won 6 Helpmann Awards for her dance work. This high number of awards shows her success in leading Bangarra into a new era of storytelling.
By Newsroom | Arts and Culture, Australia |

Frances Rings, of Mirning heritage, has achieved a notable first, helming Bangarra Dance Theatre as its Artistic Director and Co-CEO. This marks a significant point in the company's trajectory, with Rings entering her second year in this dual leadership role.

Under Rings' direction, Bangarra continues its mission to explore and present the lived experiences of Australia’s First Nations people. Her work, including the production "Yuldea," which examines ancient water sources beneath the desert, underscores a commitment to uncovering and articulating often-overlooked narratives. Rings emphasizes the importance of digging beyond surface-level stories to reveal deeper historical truths.

Rings' tenure is marked by a string of accolades. She has been recognized with multiple awards throughout her career, including six Helpmann Awards, a Deadly Award, an Australian Dance Award, and a Green Room Award. These honors highlight a sustained impact and critical appreciation for her contributions to the performing arts.

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The company, under Rings' guidance, appears to be navigating "new horizons." This period follows the production of "Firestarter: The Story Of Bangarra," a documentary commemorating the company's 30th anniversary. Rings speaks of "an incredible side of empowerment" and the importance of authenticity and leadership roles held by First Nations individuals across various sectors.

A Legacy of Storytelling

Rings' connection to her heritage is central to her artistic vision. As a descendant of the Mirning Tribe, her work often draws from Indigenous traditions and histories. She describes a responsibility "of our nation" in telling these stories, stressing that "every element has to tell their story."

The Bangarra Dance Theatre has a history of producing work that engages with significant cultural and historical themes. Rings’ appointment and the company’s subsequent productions indicate a continuation and evolution of this practice. Her leadership involves not only artistic direction but also co-management of the company alongside Louise Ingram.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who is the new leader of Bangarra Dance Theatre in 2024?
Frances Rings is the Artistic Director and Co-CEO of Bangarra Dance Theatre. She is from the Mirning people and is now in her second year of leading the famous dance group.
Q: What is the Yuldea dance production by Bangarra about?
The Yuldea dance show looks at old water sources hidden under the desert. It helps people understand the deep history and stories of First Nations people that are often forgotten.
Q: How many awards has Frances Rings won for her dance work?
Frances Rings has won many prizes, including 6 Helpmann Awards and an Australian Dance Award. These awards show that experts really like her work and how she tells stories through dance.
Q: Why is Frances Rings' role at Bangarra Dance Theatre important for First Nations people?
She is the first First Nations person to be both Artistic Director and Co-CEO at the company. This means First Nations people are now leading the way in telling their own history and culture to the world.