Get Ready for Wakakirri 2025 - Unleash the Power of Story-Dancing with Mind Over Matter: Tales of Inner Strength

Wakakirri, Australia’s largest national performing arts event for schools, is thrilled to launch its 2025 season! This year’s festival theme, Mind Over Matter: Tales of Inner Strength, invites schools nationwide to tell inspiring stories of resilience, courage, and growth through Story-Dance. With options for live performances and video submissions, Wakakirri gives every school a chance to shine on a national platform.

Since 1992, Wakakirri has united schools in a celebration of story-dancing, creativity, and community. “We believe that great stories inspire change,” says Wakakirri Festival Director Adam Loxley. "We’re excited to see students channel their inner strength into performances that encourage growth, engagement, and well-being."

Designed to make performing arts accessible to all, Wakakirri’s award-winning program is open to schools everywhere - urban, remote, and regional. Schools create a seven-minute Story-Dance to be performed on stage during Term 3. These performances are showcased at prestigious theatres in major cities and select regional venues, ensuring a memorable experience for every participant. Schools can choose between performing live or submitting through Wakakirri’s Video platform, offering flexibility for all to participate.

Sharon King from Bass Valley Primary School in Victoria captures the impact of Wakakirri: “The sense of connection and belonging from participating is unmatched with anything in my 35 years in education.”

Why Participate in Wakakirri?
• Promote Student Engagement and Well-being: Wakakirri enhances student creativity and engagement, providing a meaningful performing arts experience for all.
• Accessible for Every School and Student: With performances in major city theatres, selected regional venues, and video options, Wakakirri is designed for accessibility.
• Opportunities for National Recognition: Schools embodying Wakakirri’s ethos ‘Great Stories Inspire Change’ are recognized through state and national awards, with outstanding performances showcased on Wakakirri's website and media.

How Your School Can Get Involved
Wakakirri is open to all school types - primary, secondary, government, independent, and community groups like dance studios. Schools can join Wakakirri 2025 by creating a seven-minute Story-Dance based on the 2025 Festival Theme Mind Over Matter: Tales of Inner Strength.

Schools can develop their own Story-Dance using free resources available through Wakakirri or book an Artist in Residence program, where Wakakirri Performing Arts Facilitators collaborate to bring the Story-Dance to life. Schools can also book a free consultation with a Wakakirri expert for additional guidance.
Register now and secure your school’s spot in Wakakirri 2025 at our website or contact our team to learn more about participation, resources, and consultation options.

Costs
• Live Performance: $39 per student
• Video Submission: $200 per school
• Artist in Residence Program: Ranges from $895 to $4,235, depending on school needs. Contact Wakakirri for details.

Contact Us
For inquiries, call Wakakirri at 02 9669 3777 or visit www.wakakirri.com.