whatchaupto? dallas winmar (yettung)
Dallas Winmar
My writing journey started when I was first approached by Yirra Yaakin Noongar Theatre to write Aliwa, a story of three sisters and their mother’s fight to keep them together. Aliwa premiered in Perth (2000). I was also commissioned by Kooemba Jdarra to write Skin Deep for their 2000 program.
Aliwa was re-staged at Belvoir Street Theatre Sydney (2001) and is published by Currency Press. Yibiyung, my third play, premiered at Belvoir Street (2008) and played at Malthouse (2008). I have also written an episode for Series 2 of My Place—Before Time: Bunda (ABC TV and Australian Children’s Television Foundation). My writing awards include: Kate Challis Award 2012 for Yibiyung, Kate Challis RAKA award 2002 for Aliwa (shared with Jane Harrison for Stolen) and short-listing for the WA Premier’s Book Award and the Louis Esson Prize for Drama.
I’m currently working on a stage adaptation of Kim Scott’s award winning novel That Deadman Dance with director Neil Armfield. The process of writing I guess is a madness. A journey drawing on personal experiences. Love the feeling you get when a character is given a voice, a personality, life. The magic that writing gives. Is it worth it? Yes!
Dallas Winmar (Yettung) was born in Perth, WA. She has worked in many different industries, balancing her full-time job with her love of the arts.
RealTime issue #111 Oct-Nov 2012 pg. 22
