Taking the stage at ILA’s Light Room from August 15–17, Murray Whispers is all about the beauty, rhythm, and mystery of the Murray River. It’s a show full of movement, music, and magic, created by Adelaide Ballet’s Artistic Directors Sarah Humeniuk and Rejane Garcia.
“Murray Whispers is a deeply personal piece for us – a meeting of two lived experiences: one rooted and the other discovering,” says Sarah and Rejane.
Sarah grew up in South Australia and has danced with legends like Margot Fonteyn and Michail Baryshnikov. Rejane, originally from Brazil, moved to Adelaide six years ago and sees the river with fresh, curious eyes. Together, their vision flows into a performance that promises to stir the senses.
Expect an epic mix of dance, music, and stunning visuals. Giant LED screens will light up the stage with gorgeous footage of the river, created by local artists Thomas Oates and Scott Baskett. Meanwhile, the dancers will glide across the stage in dreamy costumes by designers Kira Bayliss and Alice Ong, all moving to an original score by Australian composer Ashley Hribar.
“Classical ballet now has a true home in South Australia,” says Sarah and Rejane. “We’re here to create world-class opportunities… and deliver unforgettable performances long into the future.”
Adelaide Ballet was co-founded in 2022 to bring classical ballet to South Australia in a big way. Now based in a beautiful heritage building and performing regularly at ILA – the city’s exciting Centre for Immersive Art and Light – the company is growing fast and dreaming big.
Murray Whispers first wowed audiences last year in a special preview season. Now it’s back, polished and perfected, for its official Australian premiere.
Murray Whispers is on 15-17 August 2025 at The Light Room @ ILA, Level 1, 63 Light Square, Adelaide. Tickets here.
