Movies

Firestarter – The Story of Bangarra

Synopsis

Firestarter marks the 30th anniversary of Australia’s most iconic performing arts company: Bangarra Dance Theatre.

When three young Aboriginal brothers – Stephen, David and Russell Page – took on an infant dance company in the early 1990s, little did they know they would create the most iconic dance company in the country, and play a crucial part in some of the most impactful political events in recent Australian history.

Through the eyes of its celebrated artistic director, Stephen Page, it tells a tale of unparalleled success in the face of adversity and pain.

Interweaving exclusive and intimate behind-the-scenes footage, Firestarter uncovers the roots of Stephen’s artistic activism and the socio-political context from which he and Bangarra have grown.

But it also reveals the family's struggles, artistic director Stephen Page's pain when he loses his two brothers over 14 years. Here Firestarter becomes a symbolic story about Aboriginal shared trauma, identity and creative expression.

Feature Documentary Award – 2020 Adelaide Film Festival

Trailer

Details

Cast
Stephen Page
Russell Page
David Page
Release dates
11 October 2020 – World premiere at the Brisbane International Film Festival
18–25 October 2020 – Adelaide Film Festival
15 January 2021 – Sydney Festival
18 February 2021 – Cinematic release in Australia
Awards
Winner – AACTA (Best Documentary Award) Winner – Adelaide Film Festival (Feature Documentary Award) Winner – Adelaide Film Festival (Inaugural Change Award) Winner – Documentary Award at the 66th Walkley Awards
Rating
MA 15+ - Mature accompanied
Soundtrack
Steve Francis, David Page

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Cite this page

Korff, J 2022, Firestarter – The Story of Bangarra, <https://www.creativespirits.info/resources/movies/firestarter-the-story-of-bangarra>, retrieved 10 December 2024

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