“It is very much an experiment, and what we are trying to do is very experimental,” she said.

The 2016 NSW Regional Arts Fellow recipient is now entering the final stages of her Heritage, Lineage and Future research project with a performance titled incomplete, ever unfolding.

“There are some pretty amazing bodies to work with out of this small area – very skilled, informed and expansive bodies working in a world of experimental process. So, it’s not a simple road,” she said.

“Also, I think I’ve really loved delving into history.”

The fellowship has allowed her the “opportunity to refresh”, “unlearn” and “explore the unknown”.

“The expressiveness of the body is what we’re exploring,” she said.

“As an audience you’re confronted with the unusual, the unknown. It can be confronting.

“A strain of it is also about body awareness, and a freedom the body can express.”

The VCA graduate, and founder of Fling Physical Theatre, has worked closely with Towamba historian Mark McKenna and Kiah’s Don Asker on the project.

Working with adult dancers, including former students Leif Helland, Siobhan McKenna and Kyall Shanks has been a new experience for the long time teacher and choreographer.

Bermagui-raised dancer Delia Silvan, who has performed with the Australian Dance Theatre, Leigh Warren Dancers and Chunky Move, is one of Ms Pemberton’s life studies.

Ms Silvan moved to Canberra at the age of 12, before forging an artistic relationship with Ms Pemberton in Melbourne during her time at the VCA.

Performances of incomplete, ever unfolding will take place on April 15, 21 and 22 at the Tanja Hall. Heritage, Lineage and Future is supported by the NSW government through Create NSW.