Arterial by Na Djinang

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An invigorating and moving performance that celebrates what it means to be First People - the lifeblood of this country. 

A moving acrobatic performance linking people, country, and culture, where the unseen bonds between the body and the land become beautifully visible. 

This award-winning Na Djinang Circus performance explores the ancient connections tying First Nations people together, strong through bloodlines but irreparably damaged through colonisation. Four performers connect with each other physically and spiritually in a display of breath-taking acrobatics. Arterial will both excite and move you as the performers celebrate what it means to be First People—the lifeblood of this country. The land is its beating heart. 

Hero image credit: Cecil Martin

Performance reviews

“After the show I was stupefied by its meaning and the beauty in its delivery. Soft and strong, non-gendered and sophisticated. I had to sit in my seat for a while after and just contemplate everything.”  
– Ofa Fanaika, Nothing Ever Happens in Brisbane 

“The effervescence of Arterial wraps you up in joy, before leaving tear streaks across your cheeks. Our hearts are theirs when all is said and done.”  
– Stephen A Russell, Timeout 

About Na Djinang

Na Djinang Circus is a Melbourne based contemporary circus company working with diverse young artists to share unique insight with the next generation’s Hands & Feet. Na Djinang Circus aims to develop work that utilises the next generation’s social and political attitudes and tell stories that challenge our own perceived ideas about contemporary Australian society. Their work explores fundamental human characteristics from an indigenous perspective, using the body to demonstrate complex human experiences of trust, connection, vulnerability, and joy. 

Na Djinang Circus is known for being a First Nations led company and their art and ethos reflect traditional and contemporary values. They are curious, original and free to make mistakes. They believe as artists they have the power to shape audiences’ opinions and help create change.

This performance is presented in partnership with