News · 1 March 2024

Interview with the Artist – Matriarchs

Embark on a powerful journey with Olivia Adams, a proud Wulli Wulli artist and trailblazer in contemporary dance.

Her latest work Matriarchs is an exploration of identity and intergenerational healing through the tales of First Nations women – daughters, mothers, grandmothers, and great-grandmothers. Premiering as part of Dance24 Festival at Metro Arts, Matriarchs is a powerful contemporary dance work that explores how the experiences of past generations can help shape the stories of the future.

THREE WORDS TO DESCRIBE THE SHOW…

Olivia Adams (OA): Feminine. Mesmerising. Warm.

WHAT CAN AUDIENCES EXPECT?

OA: As First Nations people “the arts” are not just a hobby but an integral part of our knowledge systems and who we are as people. Dance was the catalyst for me to connect with community and the first step in a long journey of finding security in my Aboriginal identity. I want people to be able to experience the power that dance can have to connect, reconnect and heal.

Audiences can expect a contemporary dance show with captivating visuals and soundscapes. You’ll enter a wholesome feminine space and follow a powerful journey of identity.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOURSELF AS A PERFORMER/CREATIVE?

OA: I’m still working this one out, to be honest -it feels like it’s constantly evolving.

WHO INSPIRES YOU AND WHY?

OA: This young girl was doing a cultural dance at Musgrave Park for NAIDOC years ago and I just couldn’t stop watching. She was so staunch. She embodied this incredible power and pride in the way she danced – which I will be thinking about for a long time.

HOW DID YOU DISCOVER YOUR LOVE FOR PERFORMING ARTS?

OA: I started dance lessons very young, so it’s a love that’s always been there. I do remember seeing a contemporary dance show when I was about twelve and being in awe. I just wanted to be on stage with them and walked away knowing I wanted that to be my job.

Matriarchs premieres as part of Metro Arts’ DANCE24 festival 22 – 25 May, at New Benner Theatre, West Village, West End.

Click here for more details.