Bangarra Dance Theatre at Sydney Opera House

Illume is a groundbreaking production from Bangarra Dance Theatre that illuminates the deep connection between First Nations cultures and the celestial world. Rooted in the traditions of the Mirning people (an Aboriginal Australian group whose ancestral lands span the coastal region of the Great Australian Bight), the show explores how light has guided Indigenous knowledge, storytelling, and spirituality for millennia. Through a mesmerizing blend of contemporary dance, evocative music, and striking visual art, Illume delves into the sacred relationship between land, sky, and ancestral wisdom. However, as artificial light pollution grows, these sacred teachings are being disrupted, threatening the ability of First Nations communities to pass down celestial knowledge and connect with sky country.

Created by acclaimed choreographer Frances Rings and visual artist Darrell Sibosado, Illume is a visually stunning, thought-provoking experience that bridges the physical and spiritual worlds. It raises urgent questions about environmental sustainability and whether the wisdom of Indigenous elders can light the way forward in an era of ecological crisis. Don’t miss this transformative journey—book your Illume musical Sydney tickets today!

The Story

Illume is a breathtaking fusion of contemporary and traditional First Nations dance, woven with evocative music and striking visual storytelling. At its core, the production explores the Mirningan (an Aboriginal Australian group) people’s deep connection to sky country, where the stars have long served as a celestial map, guiding travel, rituals, and the passing down of knowledge.

However, in a modern world saturated with artificial light, this sacred connection is fading. The production highlights the disruption of ecosystems, the loss of ancient stories, and the impact on Indigenous communities whose traditions are tied to the night sky. Through powerful movement, rhythmic storytelling, and stunning projections inspired by Goolarrgon Bard artistry, Illume becomes a dance of resistance—an urgent call to preserve ancestral wisdom in the face of an uncertain future. Can the knowledge of elders illuminate the way forward? Experience the journey unfold on stage.

Show Timings

Show timings for Bangarra Dance Theatre at Sydney Opera House may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.

Cast & Crew

• Choreographer: Frances Rings and artists of Bangarra Dance Theatre
• Composer: Brendon Boney
• Artistic & cultural collaborator: Darrell Sibosado
• Set designer: Charles Davis
• Costume designer: Elizabeth Gadsby
• Lighting designer: Damien Cooper
• Cultural consultant: Trevor Sampi

• This production is recommended for children aged 12 years and above.
• Children 15 years and under must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
• This production explores political and social themes, includes depictions of traumatic events experienced by First Nations Peoples, and may feature voices or images of deceased persons. Viewer's discretion is advised.

Tickets Redemption

• You’ll get an instant email confirmation right after you book your tickets.
• Enjoy a hassle-free entrance to the venue by showing your mobile ticket and a valid photo ID – no printout necessary!

Cancellation & Refunds

• Tickets cannot be refunded, amended, or rescheduled.

• Address: Joan Sutherland Theatre, Syndey Opera House, Macquarie St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
• Bus: Take buses 396, 343, 304, or 441 from SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, or buses 333 and 392N from other city landmarks. The nearest stop is Circular Quay, Young St, Stand D (850m away). A wheelchair-accessible Courtesy Bus runs between Circular Quay and the Sydney Opera House.
• Light rail: Hop on L2 or L3 from Wynyard Station to Circular Quay Station (950m away), then take the free Courtesy Bus to the venue.
• Train: Take trains T8 or T3 from Wynyard Station to Circular Quay Station, the closest stop to the theatre. A Courtesy Bus is available from the station.
• Ferry: Enjoy scenic views by taking Ferry 3 from Barangaroo, Wharf 1, to Circular Quay, Wharf 4, a 10-minute walk from the theatre.

Available facilities: elevator, restrooms, bar, cloakroom, escalator

Accessibility: wheelchair accessible, wheelchair spaces available, hearing assistance, accessible restrooms, accessible elevator

• Security: To ensure your comfort and security, you might encounter a few security checks when you arrive at the venue.
• Dress code: Smart casual or semi-formal attire is the way to go.
• Outside food: While outside food isn't usually allowed, many theaters have cafes or restaurants nearby for you to check out before or after the show.