Dancing canoe
Maker
Cedric Waia
Date1989
Object number00015617
NameDancing canoe
MediumCedar, cotton, synthetic raffia
DimensionsOverall: 1170 x 965 x 140 mm, 1.85 kg
Display Dimensions: 1060 x 120 x 1004 mm
Display Dimensions: 1060 x 120 x 1004 mm
ClassificationsCeremonial artefact
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionThis ceremonial object is a dancing canoe that was made by Cedric Waia on Saibai Island, Torres Strait. The dancing canoe is used in dances to convey stories.HistoryThe dancing canoe made by Cedric Waia of a light local wood the Islanders call cedar. Cedric Waia was known as a famous writer of songs and choreographer of dances. These dances used paraphernalia or devices of some kind, such as smaller replicas of luggers that are held in the hand. He was also known for his unique design of dancing canoes which had a collapsing mast and sails.
This dancing canoe was used in local Saibai Island dances as well as on big occasions such as opening of graves, house openings, blessing of gardens, weddings and engagements. Waia has been dancing the canoe at the Torres Strait Cultural festivals since1989 and danced with it at the South Pacific Festival in Vanuatu in 1988.
Dances begin at night. Musicians start the proceeding using drums and guitars. In teams of 8 to10 men, the dancers walk into the dance ground carrying the canoes with their sails down. The music starts and when the singers sing 'up sail' the sails are flipped up. 'Up sails' is a term used while at sea and means to work. It was Cedric's father, Wagea Waia, who first thought of this dance move. This dance movement and dancing canoes are special to the Saibai Islands.
The making and using of these dancing canoes meant that the people at Saibai Island did not forget their seafaring
history. As part of a revival of traditional life they have started to build the outriggers they used to sail in. Wagea
Waia was the only man on Saibai Island who remembered building an outrigger canoe. In the last eight years before Wagea Waia died, the Saibai Islanders tried to learn as much as possible from him to continue traditions that they felt were disappearing.
Using the designs on old dancing canoes and Wagea Waia's knowledge, they were able to building outriggers again.SignificanceThis dancing canoe represents a long tradition on Saibai Island and for dance and a strong affiliation with the sea. 
