Marrugueku has been in conversation with the Sami peoples of the Nordic region for some time, meeting Per Ananiassen from the Sami National Theatre in Taipei in 2019. Discussion since then has prospered highlighting potential collaboration as artists/Indigenous peoples. For Marrugeku, trans-Indigenous and intercultural exchange, and international dialogue are central to creating new approaches to choreography. In September 2025, Marrugeku’s Co-Artistic Directors, Dalisa Pigram and Rachael Swain, collaborated on a three day workshop exchange program with the Jillat Sami Dance Centre in Vuollerim, Sweden, to make connections and deepen relations with Sami artists and the local dance community. First Nations dance artists Jada Narkle (Noongar) and Malati Angus (Bardi) accompanied Dalisa Pigram and Rachael Swain to participate in the program at Jillat.
“In Vuollerim, I experienced a strong sense of community and sustainability, learning from local traditions and ways of living that align closely with my own values. The contrast between the urban energy of Lyon and the nature-focused life in Vuollerim offered a well-rounded and transformative experience. Overall, the opportunity allowed me to grow, exchange knowledge, and strengthen my commitment to cultural exchange and creative practice. I am excited to see what the future holds as this experience has given me a lot of hope for the future.” Malati Angus
Read more about Jillat Sami Dance Centre here.
Photograph of workshop at Jillat Sami Dance Centre in Vuollerim, Sweden.
Image credit: Rachael Swain
