Internationally recognized the Bangarra Dance Theatre, for its distinctive dance performances that reflects many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island cultures, is to perform in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia on this upcoming weekend. 

The troupe of Bangarra combines the spirituality of traditional culture with modern story-telling. This is the first Australian performing arts company to tour Mongolia dedicated to the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Australia and Mongolia that marks in 2012. 

The national indigenous troupe, led by artistic director Stephen Page, will perform two shows at the Mongolian State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet on September 22-23, 2012. 

The Bangarra Dance Theatre will stage the compilation of recent works themed "Spirit" that has been commissioned by the Mongolian Arts Council in collaboration with sponsorship partner Rio Tinto; besides will have a nine-day tour in Mongolia.

The tour will continue in Umnugovi Aimag, Mongolia, as the Rio Tinto prepares to launch its Oyu Tolgoi gold and copper mine from September 24-27, 2012.

Fourteen artists from the Bangarra Dance Theatre a Sydney-based company, many of whose recent dance works reference the effects of mining on traditional Aboriginal land, will also hold workshops with local groups and colleges, and embark on a three-day trip into the desert to speak to locals about their culture and exchange ideas.

Bangarra's executive director Ms. Catherine Baldwin said the visit was a watershed for the company.

"This is the first time an Australian company has toured Mongolia, and we are very pleased to have been chosen as representatives of Australia's arts community," she said.

"Even though it's a developing country, there's an active performing arts scene in Mongolia and the company is excited to see what it looks like. There will be some great cultural exchange."

Showcasing the best of Bangarra’s internationally acclaimed repertoire, the majority of Spirit features highlights from the company’s sell-out production Bush, as well as treasured moments from Bangarra’s repertoire.

Set to a beautiful and haunting score composed by David Page and Steve Francis, "Spirit" is a lush and contemporary celebration of beauty, ritual and music. From the last breath of sunset to the first finger-light of dawn, the audience enters a mysterious and secret space to witness nature’s sacred poetry.

Featuring Kathy Balngayngu Marika, a traditional elder from North East Arnhem, "Spirit" weaves storytelling, dance, theatre and music into an unforgettable theatrical experience.

Choreography: Stephen Page, Frances Rings, Bernadette Walong-Sene

Music: David Page & Steve Francis

Set Design: Peter England

Lighting Design: Nick Schlieper

Costume Design: Jennifer Irwin