Byron Theatre Company Launches Theatre Makers with Masterclasses by Wesley Enoch and Waangenga Blanco
Hero Image - Displace I Call Home (Byron Theatre Company) - Waangenga Blanco (Choreographer)
Two of Australia’s leading Indigenous artists bring world-class training to the Northern Rivers this spring.
Byron Theatre Company is introducing a new chapter in local arts development with the launch of Theatre Makers, a programme of workshops and masterclasses designed to strengthen the skills, creativity and connections of theatre practitioners across the Northern Rivers.
Part of the Byron Theatre Company’s multi-year Storyteller Programme, Theatre Makers offers practical training in writing, acting, directing, movement, production and design, creating a pathway from learning to professional stage production.
Theatre Manager, Jon Howell said the initiative is about building the region’s creative capacity.
“We want to ensure Northern Rivers artists have access to training and mentorship from leading practitioners without needing to leave the region. It’s about building capacity locally while fostering collaboration and professional growth.”
The 2025 programme opens on Saturday 20 September with Waangenga Blanco, who will lead a dynamic movement workshop exploring physical storytelling, character development through the body, and First Nations perspectives on story and place.
A celebrated dancer, choreographer and actor of Meriam Mer and Amu descent, Waangenga’s career includes more than two decades of work with Australia’s leading performing arts companies, including as a principal artist with Bangarra Dance Theatre. Waangenga recently choreographed the debut of Byron Theatre Company, Displace I Call Home, in July 2025.
“I’m excited and passionate about sharing my love of dance and storytelling because I know the power of movement in expressing our heart’s deepest desires,” said Waangenga. “In my workshop, we will awaken ancestral memory, cultivate presence and flow, and unlock emotional expression. Dance is medicine and a tool to return home to your body and connect more deeply with the world.”
In November, acclaimed writer and director Wesley Enoch will present The Art of Storytelling, a two-day workshop for actors, writers and directors (22-23 November). Drawing on over 30 years of experience, including leadership roles at Sydney Festival, Queensland Theatre and Kooemba Jdarra, Wesley will guide participants through creative processes designed to spark ideas and develop original work for the stage.
“Acting isn’t just about performance, it’s about community, “ said Wesley. “In this workshop, we’ll explore the skills of truth-telling, presence and connection - qualities that matter on stage and in everyday life. Byron Bay has such a vibrant creative spirit, and I’m excited to work with local actors to nurture their craft, their courage and their voice.”
Jon said the programme is designed to create long-term outcomes for local artists.
“Theatre Makers connects directly to our Storytellers pathway, so what participants learn here can develop into new works that eventually reach our mainstage season. It’s a long-term approach to supporting original Australian theatre from our local region.”
Event Details:
Waangenga Blanco – Movement Masterclass: Saturday 20 September, 9:30am – 12:30pm. Bookings: HERE
Wesley Enoch – The Art of Storytelling: Saturday 22, 10am to 4pm and Sunday 23 November, 9:30am to 3:30pm. Bookings: HERE
Byron Theatre presents world class entertainment, filled with a local atmosphere. Check out all of the upcoming shows at www.byrontheatre.com
About Byron Theatre
The Byron Theatre is a social enterprise and supports the essential activities of the Byron Community Centre in helping locals in need, so in our mission to bring the best entertainment to Byron Bay from all around the world, we benefit and strengthen our entire community. For more information please see www.byrontheatre.com.
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