Townsville's flagship contemporary dance company, DanceNorth, has unveiled a bold and ambitious artistic program for 2026, placing its faith in the vision of three independent Australian choreographers. The season marks a significant shift towards championing individual artistic voices from across the country, promising a fresh and dynamic chapter for North Queensland's premier performing arts organisation.
A Trio of Visionary Creators Takes the Stage
The 2026 season will be built around major new works by three distinct artists: Melbourne-based choreographer Gideon Obarzanek, Western Australian artist Claudia Alessi, and Sydney's renowned performer and maker, Martin del Amo. This curated approach moves away from a single artistic director model, instead creating a collaborative framework where each artist brings their unique perspective to the company's ensemble of dancers.
Gideon Obarzanek, a founder of the acclaimed Chunky Move, is known for his intellectually rigorous and physically daring work. Claudia Alessi's practice often explores hybrid forms, blending dance with visual art and digital media. Martin del Amo brings a reputation for deeply personal and often witty solo and group creations that challenge conventional narrative.
New Works and a Commitment to Community
The season will feature world premiere works developed by each artist specifically for DanceNorth's talented ensemble. While specific titles and themes are still under development, the company has confirmed that the creations will span a diverse range of contemporary dance styles and thematic concerns, ensuring a rich and varied experience for audiences.
Beyond the mainstage productions, DanceNorth's 2026 blueprint reinforces its deep commitment to its North Queensland community. The company will continue its extensive regional engagement program, including workshops, masterclasses, and outreach performances in schools and remote communities. This dual focus on high-calibre national artistry and local connection remains a cornerstone of the company's identity.
Securing a Vibrant Future for Dance in the North
Announcing the season well in advance is a strategic move by DanceNorth. It provides ample time for creative development, secures vital funding and partnership opportunities, and builds audience anticipation. The decision to platform independent artists is seen as a way to inject diverse new energies and ideas into the company's repertoire, ensuring its relevance and vitality on the national stage.
The 2026 season is a clear statement of confidence in the future of contemporary dance in Townsville. By collaborating with such esteemed independent makers, DanceNorth not only elevates its own productions but also contributes to the broader ecosystem of Australian dance, offering significant commissions to artists outside the major southern capitals. For audiences in North Queensland, it promises a year of cutting-edge, nationally significant dance right on their doorstep.
