The Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the 2026 Biennale Danza has been awarded today to Bangarra Dance Theatre, the first company composed entirely of Aboriginal Australian and Torres Strait Islander dancers.
The Bangarra company was founded in 1989 by Uncle Rob Bryant, Cheryl Stone and Carole Y. Johnson, born from the energy of the National Aboriginal Islander Skills Development Association (Maisda). From 1991 to 2022 it was led by artistic director Stephen Page. An emblem of Aboriginal creativity, Page's vision and tenacity made Bangarra one of the most successful Indigenous or First Nations performing arts companies in the world. Frances Rings, a long-standing member of the company and award-winning choreographer, became artistic director in 2023, leading the company alongside executive director Louise Ingram. Today, Frances and Louise guide the company in the mission Bangarra has set itself: to promote awareness and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.
"Since the beginning of my tenure," said Biennale Danza artistic director Wayne McGregor, "I have sought to highlight and support extraordinary artists and companies whose influence and impact go beyond their particular work."
At the 2026 Biennale Danza, the Australian company made its European premiere last night at the Teatro Malibran with "Terrain", choreographed by Frances Rings, which will be performed again this evening.
