This special issue is collectively edited by Dance Research Australia (DRA).

Focusing on the localities within the Southern Oceanic landscapes of Australia, New Zealand (Aotearoa) and the South Pacific (Moana nui a Kiwa), this issue takes as its theme the work of the dancer and choreographer in the enriched field of diverse dance practices. Circling around questions of agency, authorship and creative methods, we seek to emphasise experimental, culturally distinct, indigenous, inclusive and queered practices while accurately reflecting the cultural profile of contemporary dance activity in the region. The issue encourages equitable engagement and contributions of writers attuned to First People’s Indigenous praxis, experimental  communities and their contributions to the future direction of the art form.