AUSTI. Dance and Physical Theatre's annual unveiling of fresh choreographic talent will return to the Illawarra Performing Arts Centre (IPAC) for a three-night run from October 17-19.

2024’s uNCOILEd eXposed will feature new pieces by Fiona Larkin, Elizabeth Arifien, and Mara Glass. An outcomes-based residency project, uNCOILEd gives emerging choreographers the chance to work with AUSTI. dancers to bring new, experimental works to the stage, providing help with costumes, lighting, photography and videography.

Every year produces “absolutely beautiful” work, says AUSTI.'s founder and artistic director, Michelle Maxwell. “I'm always in awe of how, as young artists, they step up to the challenge.”

Thanks to Elizabeth Arifien for taking the time to tell us about her work.

Please tell us a bit about yourself and why you became a dancer.

I'm a director, choreographer and music artist who creates emotive performances for others placing personal and societal issues at the forefront of creative conversations.  

I was born in Derbyshire, in the north of England, and have consistently explored the voices and subject matters of those left to the outskirts of society. My films have represented a pursuit for truth, celebration of diversity and escapism. Through my desires to make the arts more accessible I unite individuals and communities and let my movement speak boldly and profoundly where words often fall short.

Dancing, singing and making music opens a door to my innermost feelings and allows me to come home. It's my place of refuge, my therapy, and my offering for change to occur. I founded and directed Creative Dance London, a community-interest company creating transformation through improvisation-based dance sessions for people of all ages and abilities, reaching audiences of 20,000 people around the globe.

I also co-founded Move Beyond Words, a creative platform that amplifies the many voices of neurodivergent artists through a podcast (interviewing neurodivergent celebrities, such as Darcey Bussell), research (with Rambert School, Once Dance UK, British Dyslexia Association), and live performances and films (both supported by companies like Royal Opera House and V&A).

Both companies have closed due to my move a year ago to Australia, but the work and advocacy continue with their methodologies.

Most recently, I was selected for the London Director Awards and placed second in the 2024 Oz Indie Film Festival for my film Damselfly, which I directed, choreographed and created the music for with producer Tony Nwachukwu (Attica Blues). This project marked the beginning of my journey to combine my experience in film, music and dance. 

My creative endeavours come from a place of curiosity and kindness and some of my past works have been created with the support of Royal Academy of Arts, the British Dyslexia Association, Royal Opera House, London College of Fashion, Studio Wayne McGregor, Arts Council England, National Lottery and V&A.

Press coverage of my past works includes the Guardian, BBC, Grls In Film, Perth Film Festival, Dance International, Design Museum, London Live and NOWNESS.

Why move into choreography?

I have always wanted to be a choreographer from a very early age. I have ADHD and dyslexia and creating order in chaos is something I’m very good at and I see choreography as a reflection of this.

As a child I could never sit still, even watching TV I was upside-down or in the splits, so my mum put me into dance class. Since then it has been a lifeline for me to move and tell the stories within myself and others. Sometimes words fail me but my body never does. I have to honour that way in which I process. 

What inspired your new work?

The inspiration for this new work has been collage and the individual stories inside each of the pictures that in turn creates its own larger image/story. This seed has taken on its own life and I have thoroughly enjoyed allowing it to evolve without restrictions. 

Where do you hope this will take your career?

I would like to tour this new work and have the opportunity to work with other dance companies. As I am new to Australia, I am hopeful to connect with the dance communities here in Illawarra. 

uNCOILEd eXposed is at IPAC's Bruce Gordon Theatre, 17-19 October, tickets $15-$35. 

Read more in the Flame's October cover story.