Under the star-illuminated skies of the Torres Strait, a green turtle navigates her way back to the beach where she was born. The season has started, the turtles are returning to nest, and soon the island will welcome a new generation of hatchlings - amongst them, our small turtle friend, Migi!  

In Bangarra’s first dedicated work for children, join our heroine Migi as she undertakes a journey of discovery and survival. A contemporary saltwater Lagaw Kazil (Island Children) story inspired by the totemic system of the green turtle, Waru - journey of the small turtle is an interactive and immersive introduction to Torres Strait Islander culture and dance for 3-7-year-olds. 

Created by Stephen Page, together with Hunter Page-Lochard and Bangarra alumni Dancers and Choreographers Sani Townson and Elma Kris, Waru provides teachers, parents and caregivers with a unique opportunity to open up conversations about climate change, caring for the environment, and the traditional cultural values of respect and reciprocity.  

Links to Curriculum

The Arts: F-4 Dance, Drama, Media, Music
Foundation: explore how and why the arts are important for people and communities
Explore where, why and how Dance/Drama/Music/Media is created and/or performed across cultures, times, places and/or other contexts.  

HASS F-6:
Year 4 History
The diversity of First Nations Australians, their social organisation and their continuous connection to Country/Place 

Year 3 Geography
The ways First Nations Australians in different parts of Australia are interconnected with Country/Place 

Year 5 Geography
The influence of people, including First Nations Australians and people in other countries, on the characteristics of a place 

General Capabilities: Critical and Creative Thinking, Personal and Social.  

Cross-Curriculum Priorities: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Histories and Cultures, 

Recommended for grades 3-7.

Waru has been generously supported by the Girgensohn Foundation and the Restart Investment to Sustain and Expand (RISE) Fund – an Australian Government initiative.