Carrington Parklands and Throsby Creek will be transformed into a giant outdoor theatre next month thanks to a very special collaboration.

Curious Legends are joining forces with the Newcastle Worimi Community to create a show full of Aboriginal dancing, projections and their signature illuminated puppetry.

Artistic director Mitchell Reese says it started from wanting to “create something really special”.

“Over a year in the making, think outdoor performance with breathtaking Aboriginal dancing and ancient stories,” he said.

“In our studio we’re currently building an eight metre long Stingray, and a three metre wide Mudcrab for the show – we can’t wait to share them with you.”

Commissioned by City of Newcastle for the New Annual Festival, Gimbay Gatigaan (meaning Friendly Mudcrab in language) explores Throsby Creek through an Aboriginal lens – that of the Dates mob, whose ancestors have walked this land since forever.

The show was originally planned for October last year, but COVID-19 forced the production to be rescheduled. 

“COVID has pushed everything back but, fortunately, Newcastle council decided this story must be told, and has been working with us behind the scenes to make it a success,” Reese said.

He encourages everyone to come along to the show for an evening under the stars that offers an opportunity to see this land in a new way.

Food trucks and a traditional smoking ceremony will also feature at the event.

It’ll be performed across three nights from Thursday 3 March until Saturday 5 March. Entry is free, it will run from 6.30pm to 9pm.

Go to the Curious Legends website for more info.

Newcastle Weekly would love to hear from you about a story idea you have in the Hunter region. Click here to submit a news tip.