In the early 1970s an upsurge of Indigenous cultural pride led to the birth of a unique new dance form: Contemporary Australian Indigenous dance.

This new dance form sprang from the collaborations of Indigenous Aboriginal dance creators, Western trained choreographers and traditional cultural owners, who came together in performance and workshops. And this led to workshops for young people keen to learn and perform this new dance fusion.

This was the genesis of NAISDA Dance College.

In 1976 a small group of students from both town and country began the first formal year-long Careers in Dance training course. The performance arm of this program became known as the Aboriginal/ Islander Dance Theatre (AIDT) - a vibrant touring company employing students and graduates of the new Careers in Dance training program.

Very soon the theatre group was receiving invitations to perform at festivals across over the world. And the training side evolved into the National Aboriginal and Islander Skills Association – now known as NAISDA Dance College.

The Auditions are now being held the NSW Central Coast from 4-7 October.

The audition period is rather like a camp with classes, workshops and other activities including visiting local cultural sites. All the young people stay together in a motel right near our campus (with adult supervisors). Abstudy pays for all the costs of travel, accommodation and meals, so it is a wonderful opportunity for a young person who might be interested in a career in dance, or who wishes to learn more about their culture.

For many young people, a highlight of the experience is meeting others from all around Australia. And, wherever you are from, it is a thrill to drive over the Sydney Harbour Bridge, with the Opera House on the right, on the way to the Central Coast, where NAISDA is located. Wonderful cultural sites and great beaches for surfing, good fishing and a friendly community make up the laid back lifestyle of the Central Coast of NSW.

The campus is part of Mt Penang Parklands at Kariong with sporting facilities, a botanic garden, lakes and cottages for student accommodation.

Students can audition from the age of 16. There are no fees to study at NAISDA.
You can learn more about NAISDA at their website