Bangarra Dance uses 3D Scanning and 3D printing for prop design and manufacture
Bangarra Dance Theatre is one of Australia’s leading performing arts companies, made up of professional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander performers. Contemporary in form and ancient in spirit, Bangarra draws on over 65,000 years of living culture to create powerful works of theatre that combine dance, music, poetry and design.
At its core, Bangarra is a company of storytellers. Their works honour the stories of Elders, are created on Country, and are returned to the places where they are made—strengthening cultural connection and continuity. Each dancer is a highly trained, dynamic artist with a proud Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander background, together representing the very best of Australian talent.
Through performances shared with communities and audiences across Australia and around the world, Bangarra continues to ignite cultural storytelling with honesty, strength and contemporary expression.
Understanding the Challenge
Bangarra Dance Theatre, renowned for their stunning theatrical productions, faced a unique challenge with their latest show, “Illume”. They needed a standout stage design piece—a large, eye-catching trumpet shell, not just for aesthetic appeal but also to integrate with a lighting system. The catch? This shell had to be over three metres tall, water-tight for 3D printing, and capable of being safely mounted above dancers on stage. Plus, the shell needed to be easy to transport, fitting snugly into a wheeled crate for touring.
The project required precise collaboration, as multiple stakeholders were involved—from production managers like Cat Studley to designers like Charles Davis. Safety was a top priority, and the shell needed to be both functional and visually striking. It was clear that this was a job for Wysiwyg 3D.
Crafting the Perfect Solution
With Wysiwyg 3D on board, the process of turning a small trumpet shell into a massive stage centrepiece began. Here’s how we tackled it:
1. Collaborative Customisation
We worked closely with Bangarra’s team to decide which parts of the shell needed customisation and scaling. By offering numerous screenshots and precise measurements, we helped them visualise the final product. Our interactive approach ensured that everyone had a clear picture of the end goal.
2. Advanced 3D Scanning and Printing
After establishing a solid plan, we used cutting-edge 3D scanning to create a digital replica of the original trumpet shell. This digital model was meticulously scaled up to over three metres, ensuring it was water-tight and ready for 3D printing. The internal structure was designed to withstand the rigours of stage use, including safely suspending the shell and integrating the lighting system.
3. Transport and Safety Considerations
Bangarra’s touring needs were at the forefront of our design. The shell had to be transport-friendly, fitting neatly into a wheeled crate that could be easily loaded onto a truck. This meant considering every detail, from the shell’s size to ensuring there was enough room for packing adjustments. Safety measures were rigorously checked to guarantee the shell could be mounted securely above performers.
Results That Dazzle
The outcome? Spectacular! The massive shell now graces the stage of “Illume”, creating an awe-inspiring visual design that enhances the production’s narrative. It’s not just a prop; it’s a piece of interactive art that captivates audiences. The shell’s successful integration into the stage design showcases the power of 3D scanning and 3D printing technology when paired with creative vision.
We couldn’t be prouder to have contributed to Bangarra Dance Theatre’s success. Their recent Green Room nominations for “Outstanding Ensemble” and “Breaking Ground Award” are well-deserved accolades for a team dedicated to pushing boundaries in theatrical production. Bangarra Dance Theatre has made history as the first Australian group and first company to win the prestigious Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement in Dance at the 2026 Venice Biennale.
Conclusion
Working with Bangarra Dance Theatre on “Illume” was truly rewarding. It demonstrated the potential of 3D scanning and printing in creating unique, functional, and transportable stage designs. We applaud Bangarra for their achievements and look forward to more collaborations that bring bold visions to life.
Images Credit:
Dancers of Bangarra Dance Theatre, Illume, 2025, Photography by Daniel Boud.
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