More than 70 people will join together in dance on Friday 17 February when they rise as one for the annual One Billion Rising dance at Noosa Main Beach.
Noosa first took part in the worldwide movement on Valentine’s Day in 2013 and joined millions of others around the world as they danced to raise awareness of violence against women and helped raise funds for local services.
Free rehearsals have been underway for the past week with over 70 people taking part in the choreography that will then be performed out the front of the Noosa Heads Surf Life Saving Club on Friday from 5-6pm.
The last rehearsal will be held on Thursday 16 February at the Noosa Leisure Centre in Wallace Drive, Noosaville, from 7.15-9pm, with anyone welcome to head along and learn the dance. There is no need to book, just head along wearing a full outfit of red, black or white.
Local One Billion Rising organiser and dance artist Peppie Simpson said she was hoping to see more than 200 people participate in the free event this year, as well as raise more valuable funds for local women and their families affected by domestic violence.
“Last year we raised over $1500 for our local women’s shelters,” Peppie said.
“The event is so positive and powerful, and we’d love more people to join us again this year. The power of dance, music and community is an incredible combination and although it’s a serious issue we have a lot of fun along the way.”
Peppie stressed that no prior dance experience is required to be part of the group dance.
“The simple choreography that forms our five-minute routine means that anyone can participate – we’ve had participants aged eight to 88 years. For those who participated last year or over the last four years, the routine is almost identical which should make things easy!
“While the free rehearsals will help people feel comfortable with the steps, it’s not about how well you can dance, it’s about coming together as a community in solidarity to end violence against women.”
The global One Billion Rising dance events this year are demanding an end to the exploitation of women and girls. One in three women on the planet will be beaten or raped during their lifetime, adding up to more than one billion women and girls.
For the non-dancers, Peppie invites spectators to come along to the free performance on Friday 17 February and show their support for the cause. Dancers and drummers will gather from 5pm ahead of the dance at 5.30pm.
“I invite new and old friends, family, children, men and drummers to join us again to make a stand against violence towards women, and I look forward to us all joining again in the power of dance with the intention to heal and change,” Peppie said.
If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence call DV Connect (24 hours a day, seven days a week) free call number 1800 811 811.
