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Lighting the Dark

A journey to the very centre of what it means to be human, inspired by the legendary figures Banksy, David Bowie and Freddie Mercury.Lighting the Dark is a bold new work by Chris Dyke, a Kaurna (Adelaide) based dancer and choreographer living with Down syndrome. With the mesmerising Dancenorth ensemble by his side, Chris transforms the stage into a portal where love and light illuminate the darkness. A masterpiece of collaboration and community, Lighting the Dark reminds us of the complexity of life’s challenges and the beauty found in resilience.‘A one-hour, fourth wall–breaking theatrical event that blends contemporary dance with beatboxing, a cappella singing, milk crate Jenga, superheroes and street art references.’ – Nothing Ever Happens in Brisbane‘Reminds us – and celebrates – that some of life’s greatest joys and most meaningful experiences come from the simplest things.’ – InDaily

Chris, the embodiment of love itself, emanates compassion, transcending limitations and inviting us all into his radiant embrace. Yet amidst his rich internal landscape of dreams and boundless imagination, the world often fails to see beyond the cover of the book – a book that, if we dared to open, would reveal radical inspiration, creative brilliance, hope and love.

Inspired by Banksy, David Bowie and Freddie Mercury, Chris finds kinship in their revolutionary spirit, each serving as a reflection of his own vision. Lighting the Dark is a profound celebration of the human experience – a transcendent journey that traverses individual and universal truths in a dance to the very centre of what it means to be human.

CREATIVE CREDITS
Direction: Chris Dyke
Concept and Choreography: Chris Dyke, Amber Haines, Kyle Page
Composition and Sound Design: Anna Whitaker with Additional Lyrics and Composition: Felix Sampson
Design: Andrew Treloar
Lighting Design: Chloe Ogilvie
Performers/Choreographers: Chris Dyke, Sabine Crompton-Ward, Tiana Lung, Aleeya McFadyen-Rew, Damian Meredith, Jag Popham, Felix Sampson, Michael Smith

Lighting the Dark was commissioned by Brisbane Festival, and is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland, and the Ian Potter Foundation.

Dancenorth Australia is assisted by both the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body, and the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland. Dancenorth is also supported by Townsville City Council.

Event details

Venue: Alexander Theatre
Bookings: https://www.monash.edu/performing-arts-centres/event/lighting-the-dark/
Start Date: Friday 27 March 2026

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