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.
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, Amber Haines, Tiana Lung, Damian Meredith, Darci O'Rourke, Felix Sampson, Michael Smith
First Nations Industry Placement William Koiki Mabo
Special Thanks Tara Jade Samaya
CREW
Production Manager Toni Glynn
Stage Manager Pip Loth
Production Technician Yoshie Kenny
Guardian/ Support Workers – C Dyke Jacqui Hunt, Jock Henry Walker
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 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.
Performance History
Townsville Civic Theatre
Gurambilbarra / Townsville
2024
Brisbane Festival
Meanjin / Brisbane
2024
