Lucy Guerin Inc (LGI) is thrilled to announce Brianna Kemmerling as the recipient of the LGI First Nations Graduate Internship for 2023, in partnership with NAISDA Dance College and Joel Bray Dance.
This paid internship offers a tailored program of professional opportunities for a recent graduate from NAISDA Dance College. The program provides a holistic experience that includes up to a three-week secondment with LGI, a two-week secondment with Joel Bray Dance, attendance at industry events, and active engagement with the vibrant local dance scene in Melbourne. Throughout the internship, Brianna will receive guidance and support from Joel Bray, who will serve as her First Nations mentor. This internship aims to provide an insightful introduction to the life of an independent dance artist in Melbourne.
“I’m excited to immerse myself in the Naarm creative community and absorb as much knowledge as I can. To learn and experience opportunities like this is a gift for an emerging artist, and I feel honoured to be part of this journey.” — Brianna Kemmerling
This internship is created in partnership with NAISDA and Joel Bray Dance, reflecting a shared vision of creating new avenues for emerging First Nations dance artists to forge successful careers in the industry. The partnership celebrates and nurtures the immense talent and creativity of First Nations dancers, fostering a more inclusive and diverse dance community.
About Brianna Kemmerling
Brianna is a proud Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, and German descendant. Her family line stretches from Wik-Waya Country through Kaanju, Ankamuthi, Yupungathi, Taepadhighi, and Darnley (Erub) Island. She is a graduate of NAISDA Dance College and has performed for Gary Lang’s NT Dance Company on several works including ‘Waŋa’ (with Darwin Symphony Orchestra), the Opening Ceremony for Darwin Aboriginal Arts Fair Online, and the debut work ‘Forbidden’. Since 2019, Brianna has worked for organisations such as Gawura Cultural Immersion directed by Stuart McMinn performing Welcome/Acknowledgment/Cleansing Ceremonies and conducting Aboriginal Dance workshops across the Greater Sydney and Central Coast regions. Similarly, she has worked for Culture College in North East Arnhem Land, as a mentor for young people while also connecting with NAISDA alumni and other artists along her travels.
Thank You
This program has been generously supported by the Linnell/Hughes Trust and the Australian Government’s Restart Investment to Sustain and Expand (RISE) Fund.
Lucy Guerin Inc is also supported by the City of Melbourne, Creative Victoria and the Australian Government through the Australia Council, its arts funding and advisory body.
NAISDA Dance College is proudly supported by the Australian Government and the NSW Government.
Joel Bray Dance is supported by Creative Victoria, Creative Ventures program.