The Aboriginal word Wakakirri means ‘to dance’. It was chosen to give the festival a uniquely Australian Feel. Created in 1992 Wakakirri is Australia’s largest national performing arts event for schools.

A Wakakirri Story-Dance is a 3-7 minute performance by a group of students that theatrically tells a story using a combination of dancing, creative movement and acting to pre-recorded music.

Schools can choose to tell any story that they wish. Schools’ performances are often inspired by the Wakakirri ethos ‘great stories inspire change’ and the annual festival signature motif (in 2023 the motif is CHANGE).

Wakakirri is open to every school (Primary, Secondary, Dance and Community groups) and students with all levels of experience can participate. An emphasis is placed on creative movement and drama rather than technical dance. Emphasis is also placed on creative storytelling and sustainability, not expensive and extravagant productions.

Schools participate by creating a Story-Dance which they can perform live or send in on video. Wakakirri live festivals and video screenings take place in Term 3 around Australia.  Check out the dates here for Primary Schools, Secondary Schools, or Dance Groups

Teachers and students can create a Story-Dance on their own using the Wakakirri online resources OR schools can book a Wakakirri Artist in Residence Program and have a specialist facilitator lead the process. Rehearsals typically take 12 weeks.

Researched outcomes include increased confidence, resilience, student engagement, teamwork, pride, friendships, social awareness & cross cultural appreciation. Secondary students can also explore career pathways and develop career aspirations.

Participation fees for Wakakirri Live are $35 (incl GST) per student which includes pre season workshops, certificates and a streamable copy of your school’s performance. Optional costs include props, costumes and transport to the theatre. The fee for Wakakirri Video is $200 (incl GST) per entry. This includes screening, certificates and feedback.

A Wakakirri Artist in Residence Program is the easiest way to begin your Wakakirri journey. Choose our online version for remote schools or have a specialist Facilitator visit your school to assist with your story, choreography and soundtrack and lead students in 12 x 1 hour rehearsals. See our AIR page for a full list of prices.

Wakakirri is not a competition but does have awards that acknowledge schools who exemplify the Wakakirri ethos ‘Great Stories Inspire Change’ including raising awareness, community building and excellence in performing arts.

The Wakakirri Inspiration Fund was established to encourage and assist disadvantaged schools to participate in Wakakirri. The fund is filled each year by public donations and grants. Schools can apply for subsidies on participation fees via the fund.

Wakakirri enjoys the support of some of Australia’s leading industry professionals who give their time as part of our National Panel to encourage the next performing arts generation. Wakakirri Ambassadors partner with Wakakirri in various ways including participating in Performing Arts Careers Day, mentoring workshops and activities at live events.

Wakakirri holds an annual event for passionate secondary students, who have an interest in learning and creating pathways into the performing arts world. On Careers Day, it is our hope that students will be inspired, encouraged and informed about what it takes to succeed in the Entertainment Industry. Next event scheduled for May is themed “How to get started in the industry”.  RSVP here

Wakakirri Resources for schools include;

• Teachers Facebook Group
• Online dance lessons (coming soon!)
• Secrets to Success Manual
• Story-Dance example videos

The Wakakirri Masterclass is a 40-minute webinar designed to help schools create imaginative Story-Dances, avoid common mistakes and make their Wakakirri experience stress-free success. Topics covered include: Story structure, planning, soundtrack, sets, props and costumes. Event dates: 23 Feb / 30 March, 5pm AEST.  RSVP here