IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG) announces a new cultural collaboration as an Official Company Partner of Bangarra Dance Theatre, reinforcing the company's growing portfolio of strategic partnerships designed to deliver meaningful experiences for guests, owners and IHG One Rewards members. 

One of Australia's most acclaimed national performing arts organisations and a leading voice for First Nations storytelling, Bangarra Dance Theatre has captivated audiences for more than three decades through powerful works grounded in 65,000 years of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture. This year, Bangarra has been recognised with the prestigious Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement in Dance by the Venice Biennale/La Biennale di Venezia, becoming the first Australians to receive the esteemed award – acknowledging the impact and legacy of the company. 

The new collaboration forms part of IHG's broader strategy to build a distinctive ecosystem of partnerships that enhance guest stays, deepen loyalty member engagement, and align with the company's values of diversity, culture, and community connection. 

Matt Tripolone, Managing Director, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Australia & Pacific said the collaboration reflects IHG's belief in the power of partnerships to enhance guest experiences while strengthening brand relevance. 

“Bangarra Dance Theatre is an extraordinary cultural institution and a powerful storyteller of Australia's First Nations heritage,” he said. “At IHG, we are focused on creating distinctive experiences that deepen connection to place. This partnership allows us to align with an organisation whose purpose, creativity and authenticity resonate strongly with our brands and our guests. 

“Partnerships like this contribute to the long-term strength of our brands by enhancing differentiation and engagement, which in turn supports sustainable performance across our estate.” 

Louise Ingram, Executive Director and Co-CEO, Bangarra Dance Theatre adds: “We are thrilled to have IHG Hotels & Resorts join Bangarra as a supporting partner, working with us to share First Nations stories with audiences across Australia. Together, this partnership creates meaningful opportunities to expand cultural awareness and deepen understanding of this country's history - inviting guests to connect with the world's oldest living cultures in ways that are enriching and enduring.” 

The announcement builds on IHG's established portfolio of partnerships across sport and culture in Australasia & Pacific, including Rugby Australia and SANZAR competitions, designed to elevate brand presence and create unique opportunities for guests and members. 

Through its scale, global distribution platforms and IHG One Rewards loyalty programme, IHG is uniquely positioned to amplify partnerships such as this, connecting audiences, travellers and communities in ways that extend beyond traditional sponsorship. 

Further details regarding collaborative initiatives and member experiences will be shared in the coming months. 

To explore more and book, visit: www.ihg.com/Bangarra. 

Images can be found here.  

 Ends