Linda Luke

Linda Luke is a Lecturer in Performance and Theatre at the University of Wollongong's School of the Arts, English and Media, a position held since 2021. With two decades of professional experience as a dancer, choreographer, and performance maker, her practice explores subtle relationships between self, others, and the environment through international presentations at festivals including LiveWorks, Performance Space, and Melbourne International Arts Festival.

Her research centers on contemporary performance as a catalyst for community engagement and cross-cultural understanding. Key projects investigate environmental responsiveness (Borders Project along the Murray River), intercultural exchange (Australia-Mexico collaborations like Optimal Stopping), and embodied responses to global challenges. This work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals including Climate Action and Reduced Inequalities, often manifesting through site-specific performances that bridge dance, theatre, and film.

Recent creative output reveals consistent exploration of place-based narratives and international partnerships. Projects like the Vietnam cultural exchanges and Borders Project demonstrate how performance can vitalize communities while addressing ecological and social themes. Her award-winning film Wing exemplifies the integration of environmental concerns with cinematic dance, reflecting broader trends in using embodied practice to engage with urgent global issues.

Luke has received significant recognition for her creative work:

• Honourable Mention at EcoPerformance Film Festival (Brazil) for Wing
• Best Super Short Film Award at London Film Awards for Wing
• Semi-Finalist at Short & Sweet Illawarra Film Festival for Wing

She actively secures funding to create student opportunities through competitive grants:

• New Columbo Plan Grants (2022, 2024): Funded Vietnam exchanges with Hanoi Academy of Theatre and Cinema for co-created theatre/film projects
• Wollongong City Council Grant (2023-2024): Supported Our Hearts Beat Project for community storytelling initiatives

Luke's mentorship emphasizes independent thinking through cross-disciplinary collaboration, providing students with international experience and community engagement. While not leading a formal lab, her artistic practice thrives through collectives including De Quincey Co (core ensemble since 2004) and Propa Motion, creating dynamic teams for projects that span regional Australia, Mexico, and Vietnam.