Lighting the Dark
A journey to the very centre of what it means to be human.
Lighting the Dark is a bold new work by Chris Dyke, a Kaurna (Adelaide) based dancer and choreographer living with Down syndrome.
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 a radical inspiration, creative brilliance, hope and love.
With the mesmerising Dancenorth Ensemble by his side, Chris leads the way, transforming 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.
Inspired by the iconic figures of 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 which traverses individual and universal truths in a dance to the very centre of what it means to be human.
Upcoming Performances
Boon Wurrung, Kulin Country (Clayton)
27 Mar 26
7:30PM
Monash University Performing Arts Centre (MPAC)
Credits
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 by 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
Acknowledgements
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 the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body, and the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland, and by Townsville City Council. Dancenorth is supported by the Tim Fairfax Family Foundation and receives funding from Creative Australia through the Australian Cultural Fund.
Performance History
Townsville Civic Theatre
Gurambilbarra (Townsville City)
2024
Brisbane Festival
Meanjin (Brisbane)
2024
Regional QLD Schools Tour (Adapted Performance)
Gimuy (Cairns)
2025
Regional QLD Schools Tour (Adapted Performance)
Yuwibara Country (Mackay)
2025
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