Southern Edge Arts
Circus - Theatre - Community
Championing the creativity of young people in the Great Southern for over 35 years
DANCE, CIRCUS, THEATRE & FIRE
Young people aged 12–25 are invited to join Kaarla Wirren (Fire Spirit) a project by Southern Edge Arts that explores the resilience of people in the face of historic change and celebrates fire as a symbol of a strong spirit, family and a sense of home.
The project offers In-school workshops AND out of school workshops during Term 1 and 2 of 2026, culminating in a performance on Saturday 16 May 2026 in the Amphitheatre at Albany’s Historic Whaling Station as part of the City of Albany’s Albany 2026 program.
In 2026, the workshops will support young people in the devising of a new dance and circus performance called KAARLA WIRREN (Fire Spirit).
Noongar Associate Director, Rachael Colmer will lead the project with guest artists from Southern Edge Arts and support from Elder, Aunty Carol Pettersen.
THREE WORKSHOPS TO CHOOSE FROM
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Out of school @ Southern Edge Arts, Albany - theatre and dance
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Out of school @ Southern Edge Arts, Albany - fire arts training
Students can participate in both in- school and out of school options.
Workshops are FREE however all students need to become members of Southern Edge Arts at the cost of $20 - this provides sufficient insurance cover. Training will be held at Southern Edge Arts and Albany’s Historic Whaling Station.
Our enrolment form will include all the details we need to get you underway.
THE CREATIVE VISION
KAARLA WIRREN is guided by the cultural leadership of Elder Aunty Carol Pettersen, whose vision shapes the heart of this performance.
Working alongside her is Noongar Associate Director Rachael Colmer, ensuring cultural integrity, the engagement of a diverse array of young people, and a creative process grounded in respect and community connection.
This work is a collaboration between fire artists, Southern Edge Art and young people from across Albany and the Great Southern — a bridge between generations, cultures, and stories.
You can be a part of the performance!
YOUTH INVOLVEMENT & WORKSHOPS
Young people aged 12–27 are invited to be part of the creation of KAARLA WIRREN through workshops in:
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Dance & Theatre
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Circus Arts
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Fire Arts
Participation is free, with a $20 SEA membership required for insurance.
WHY THIS WORK MATTERS
KAARLA WIRREN is more than a performance — it is a celebration of the vibrant Albany and Great Southern youth performing arts community.
It is a rare opportunity to witness a large‑scale Noongar‑led performance, shaped by young people and grounded in cultural knowledge.
It strengthens community connection, honours shared stories, and offers a unique fire performance experience in the Great Southern region.
This is a moment for Albany — a gathering of spirit, culture, and future.
Join us around the fire. Be part of this unforgettable night.
OUR PARTNERS & SUPPORTERS
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