Bangarra Dance Theatre’s Daniel Riley is leaving the company after seven years. He will be travelling to Europe to pursue opportunities there.
Not only has Riley been one of Bangarra’s most acclaimed performers but he has also had his choreographic talents identified by artistic director Stephen Page and most recently worked alongside Page as co-creator of “Blak”. Page speaks warmly of Riley, saying. “When Daniel joined the company in 2007, he brought a unique and distinctive creative talent. During his time at Bangarra, Daniel connected back to his clan and heritage and became a story teller for his culture through contemporary dance. Supporting the company's creative vision and my work as artistic director, Daniel inspired the artists of Bangarra as a dancer and a choreographer with two highly acclaimed works, Riley and Scar. Following his deep and significant contribution to Bangarra's songline, I wish Daniel all the best in gaining further experience in Europe.”
Reflecting on his impending departure, Riley remarks, “Bangarra will always have a special place in my heart and I will continue to carry the spirit of the company with me. I feel so fortunate to have been a part of such a unique and powerful group of artists, remembering fondly our time in the studios and on tour, but especially 'on country' in Arnhem Land with the traditional communities. Stephen Page allowed me to develop a sense of self within my culture and I will treasure the relationship I have with him. I look forward to returning to Australia in the future and bringing back everything I'm about to learn and experience overseas.”
Riley’s final performance with Bangarra will be at the Holland Dance Festival 2014, this month. The company will present “Kinship” on 14 and 15 February at the festival.
Daniel Riley. Photo: Greg Barrett.
