Practice. Process. Protocol.
A First Nations-led Symposium-in-Action

Presented collaboratively by NAISDA and BlakDance,
supported by Carriageworks

At a pivotal moment for First Nations contemporary dance, the Symposium explores responsible creative practice and how First Nations and non-Indigenous artists create and express together, respecting cultural authority, story and protocol.

Saturday 21 November 2026

10am–4pm, with networking drinks to follow

Track 8, Carriageworks, 245 Wilson Street, Eveleigh, Sydney

This is not a traditional conference. Marking 50 years of NAISDA’s contribution to First Nations dance training, cultural practice and artistic leadership, the full-day Symposium-in-Action brings together artists, dancers, companies, cultural leaders, producers, presenters, educators, researchers and students through creative practice, conversation and sector exchange.

Following a week of First Nations-led choreographic development, leading First Nations choreographers Dr Vicki Van Hout and Jasmin Sheppard will share learnings and work developed on and through the bodies of independent First Nations dancers and non-Indigenous dancers from Sydney Dance Company’s Pre-Professional Year cohort.

The choreographic process will provide the foundation for creative sharings, artist-to-artist conversations, panels and wider sector exchange to consider the future of First Nations contemporary dance.

We warmly invite First Nations and non-Indigenous participants to gather, witness, listen and contribute.

Full program and registration details coming soon.

This project is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW.