Dadikwakwa-kwa come out to play
A chance to play with museum objects
Enjoy a rare chance to play with actual museum objects, and connect with the spirits and ancestors of the Anindilyakwa People.
The creation of Dadikwakwa-kwa (shell dolls) is wholly unique to the Anindilyakwa women of the Groote archipelago in Australia’s Northern Territory.
These incredible dolls are considered alive by the women who create and care for them. Traditionally used as inter-generational learning aides for literacy, numeracy, kinship systems and women’s health, they may also guide you through your dreams, answering your questions and giving advice.
Now they’re coming out to have fun with the families of Manchester!
A set of these incredible dolls were gifted to Manchester Museum when an Anindilyakwa delegation visited us in September 2023 for the return of 174 cultural heritage items that had previously been held within the collections at the Museum.
But they were gifted to us with one major condition – they need to come off display once a year to be played with.
That’s where you come in! Families are invited to come and have fun with the Dadikwakwa-kwa in a series of intimate sessions guided by the Museum team. Spaces are limited so sign up for a free ticket in advance.
There will be sessions at 2-3pm on Tuesday 8 April, Wednesday 9 April, Thursday 10 April, Tuesday 15 April, Wednesday 16 April and Thursday 17 April.