ORBIT touring initiative launches to support independent dance in Australia
Australian Dance Theatre, Dancehouse, and Sydney Dance Company have introduced a new touring program called ORBIT, supported by Creative Australia, designed to establish sustainable touring opportunities for independent choreographers. The first program, set for October and November 2026, will showcase four performances: Agitato by Jo Lloyd, [GAMEBOY] by Amy Zhang, Future History by Gabrielle Nankivell, and Charcoal by Keia McGrady, presented as two double-bills. The venues include the Neilson Studio at Sydney Dance Company, Sylvia Staehli Theatre at Dancehouse, and The Odeon in Adelaide, along with Bunjil Place and Burrinja Cultural Centre. Notably, over half of the applicants for ORBIT had never toured before, indicating challenges faced by independent artists.
Key facts
- ORBIT is a new touring initiative launched by Australian Dance Theatre, Dancehouse, and Sydney Dance Company.
- The program is supported by Creative Australia.
- The inaugural 2026 program will tour four works across October and November 2026.
- Selected works: Agitato by Jo Lloyd, [GAMEBOY] by Amy Zhang, Future History by Gabrielle Nankivell, and Charcoal by Keia McGrady.
- Venues include Neilson Studio (Sydney), Sylvia Staehli Theatre (Melbourne), The Odeon (Adelaide), Bunjil Place, and Burrinja Cultural Centre.
- More than half of ORBIT applicants had never previously toured their work.
- Josh Wright, Dancehouse CEO, highlighted the international reputation of Australian independent dance.
- Rafael Bonachela (Sydney Dance Company) and Nick Hays (ADT) expressed support for the initiative.
Entities
Artists
- Jo Lloyd
- Amy Zhang
- Gabrielle Nankivell
- Keia McGrady
- Josh Wright
- Rafael Bonachela
- Nick Hays
Institutions
- Australian Dance Theatre
- Dancehouse
- Sydney Dance Company
- Creative Australia
- Bunjil Place
- Burrinja Cultural Centre
Locations
- Australia
- South Australia
- Victoria
- New South Wales
- Sydney
- Melbourne
- Adelaide