The Australian High Commission was excited to support the PNG National Dance Championships on 26 October. The Championships were preceded by an international dance workshop with Australian dance group, Bloodline, and JAH, travelling to Port Moresby to mentor participants.
Australia and Papua New Guinea share deep cultural connections, and dance is one of the most vibrant expressions of this contemporary relationship. These connections were on display during the collab performance between PNG’s Wan Squad and Australia’s Bloodline that brought the Championships to a close.
Supporting this initiative is part of the Australian High Commission’s Yumi Stap Wantaim (we stand together) campaign, which marks PNG’s 50th anniversary of independence, and was made possible through the Australia now: PNG Edition public diplomacy program.
Australian High Commission Minister Counsellor, Ms Liz Le Bas presented the Faia Haus Moni Moves award to the best female and male performers at championships.
Ms Le Bas said “the Australian High Commission was pleased to support the International Dance Clinic and National Dance Championships through the Australia now: PNG Edition cultural diplomacy program. We were also thrilled to present the ‘Faia Haus Moni Moves’ Award which not only recognised the artistry of dance, but the deep cultural connection between Papua New Guinea and Australia.”
Pyan Ng, Wan Squad’s Creative Director said “through this dance workshop and championship, our hope is to inspire the next generation of hip hop dancers in Papua New Guinea. Welcoming Bloodline to PNG was a powerful way to showcase the vibrant dance connection between Australia and PNG, and to celebrate the creative energy that flows between our cultures.”
ENDS
Australian High Commission Minister Counsellor, Ms Liz Le Bas and First Secretary Sharne Kinleyside presenting the Faia Haus Moni Moves award to the best male performer at the championships.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100