Legendary Wiradjuri tracker Alec Riley was the first Indigenous police sergeant on the New South Wales Police Force, where he served for 40 years from 1911.
In parallel to that now, many years later, his Great-Great nephew Daniel Riley has been named the first Indigenous director of an Australian dance company, in his new role as Artistic Director of Australian Dance Theatre.
In one of his first works in this role, Tracker, Daniel explores the path his Great-Great Uncle forged between the enforced colonial system of the time and his own Wiradjuri lore.
This remarkable and deeply personal story is brought to life on stage by a team of talented First Nations creatives using different pillars of storytelling such as ceremony, music, theatre, and contemporary dance, inviting audiences to engage with the work, not simply observe it.
After sold-out seasons in both Sydney and Perth, Tracker will be performed across eight days as part of the Adelaide Festival from 10-18 March at The Odeon Theatre in Norwood. It will return to South Australia in October and November, touring across the state with the support of Country Arts SA.
“It is almost impossible to leave Tracker without feeling deeply moved.” The Saturday Paper
Australian Dance Theatre offers First Nations community members the opportunity to attend dress rehearsals and preview performances for free. Find out more at Australian Dance Theatre (adt.org.au).
Book tickets to see Tracker at the Adelaide Festival here - Tracker - Adelaide Festival