Djuki Mala

Djuki Mala are the group formerly known as The Chooky Dancers, who came to fame after their 2007 Zorba the Greek YouTube video went viral. Performing in Perth for the first time, they are delighting capacity crowds with their Fringe World show.

Opening with traditional indigenous dance, from their homeland Elcho Island, Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory, from the outset the show is tight, well choreographed and vibrant.

At the third dance, the crowd goes wild. Their signature ‘Zorba’ is brilliantly performed. Between songs, video footage from family members outlines the history of the group, and we learn that Zorba the Greek was initiated by original group member Lionel Dulmamamawuy as a thank-you to a Greek friend who had been the carer of his sister – and that it was uploaded to the net by his proud father Frank. The videos, as well as providing changing time for the performers, give a wonderful sense of family and insight into Djuki (Chooky) Mala (Mob).

Djuki Mala performs Bollywood, Singing in the Rain and some great hip-hop, Michael Jackson and Motown. Excellent dancers in many genres, they give a nod to traditional dance in many numbers, their timing is impeccable and they are very easy on the eye. This is an amazing show, with wonderful energy and fabulous dancing.

With pin-up boy good looks, Watjarr Garmu, Tibian Wyles, Didiwarr Yunapingu, Baykali Ganambarr and Yalyalway Gondarra are consummate performers with a heap of charm to match their talent.

It is almost impossible to receive a united standing ovation in Perth.  I do not remember seeing a full house standing ovation in this city in over twenty years and literally thousands of shows.  The sold-out show at Salon Perdu Spiegeltent stood as one – and it was well deserved. Fight to get a ticket to this one.

Kimberley Shaw