Culture and contemporary dance: call out for young Indigenous performers on the MNC

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people on the Mid North Coast are being encouraged to apply to study dance and culture at NAISDA for the 2026 intake.

The Central Coast college (Darkinjung Country) offers nationally accredited training in dance, performance and creative arts, combining cultural learning with contemporary practice. 

Clare Beale, a Kamilaroi, Manandanji and Darkinjung woman from Urunga and Leandra Avuri-Williams, a Wakka Wakka, Wiradjuri, and Gumbaunggiirr woman from Toormina are currently studying at the performing arts organisation.

According to her NAISDA bio, Beale has lived on Gumbaynggir Country (Mid North Coast) for most of her life. She started learning cultural dance at the age of four at cultural camps held at Scotts Head.

In 2021 Beale joined Bellingen High Schools cultural group Budabung Bari performing in festivals including Saltwater Freshwater, The Kingship Festival and Dance Rites. For the past eight years, she has trained and competed in various dance forms and is completing an IV certificate at NAISDA.

“NAISDA has helped me grow not only as a dancer but also as a proud Kamilaroi, Manandanji and Darkinjung person,” she said.

Avuri-Williams was also raised on Gunbaynggiirr Land.

In 2019 she joined mimmi gunji wajairr cultural group in Coffs Harbour, participating in workshops and contemporary Indigenous Dance performances. In 2023, Leandra became a member of Bangarra Dance Theatre’s Rekindling Youth Program. She is currently studying for a Certificate III at NAISDA.

“I’ve been able to connect with culture, develop my creative voice, and work with incredible artists from across the country,” she said.

NAISDA CEO Kim Walker is encouraging young Indigenous people from the Mid North Coast to apply.

“We encourage young people with a passion for creativity and storytelling to apply, and take the first step on an exciting journey towards a career in the performing arts,” Walker said.

Applications are open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 16 and over. They close on Monday 1 September, 2025. 

Visit: naisda.com.au/apply to find out more about the application and audition process.

📸 Thumbnail: (L-R) Clare Beale and Leandra Avuri-Williams performing on stage as NAISDA students. Photography Lisa Haymes. Images supplied: Cox Inall Ridgeway