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