PREVIEW

Australia-based scientist Dr. Weliton Menário Costa has clinched the prestigious global "Dance Your PhD" competition with his colourful take on kangaroo behaviour.

The former Canberra scientist and PhD graduate from The Australian National University (ANU), who is also known as WELI, has created a four-minute video titled 'Kangaroo Time (Club Edit)' that has captivated audiences worldwide.

The video features drag queens, Brazilian funk dancers, classical ballerinas, and more, all embodying the varied personality traits of Australian kangaroos, creating a unique blend of entertainment and education reminiscent of the beloved Aussie drag film 'The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert.'

The diverse range of dance styles, from classical ballet to twerking, mirrors the nuanced personalities of kangaroos within their social circles.

“Winning this contest is the equivalent of winning Eurovision for me,” says WELI. “I think it not only shows the incredible might of the research conducted here in Australia, but also how creative we are as a nation. Even us scientists!

“I didn’t want the performers to know too much about the creative vision beforehand. That was very important to me because I wanted everyone to do what felt right to them, in that moment.”

Performers were also encouraged to do their own thing but come together with others - just like kangaroos.

“There was no choreography involved. The dancers improvised their movements, responding to one another’s cues and interacting with each other,” the scientist and musician adds. “The only direction I gave them was to come as you are and showcase your style in your own way.

“It was very magical seeing all these people coming very engaged and bringing their best to the scene.”


WELI, originally from Brazil, undertook his PhD at ANU, spending over three years studying the behavioural nuances of wild eastern grey kangaroos in Victoria.

The research aimed to understand how kangaroos respond to unfamiliar stimuli, revealing insights into their social dynamics and the manifestation of distinct personalities. In the video, dancers show how kangaroos mimic and get along together in family and social groups.

As 'Kangaroo Time' continues to make waves, however, WELI hints he may focus on his music career, with an upcoming EP titled 'Yours Academically, Dr WELI.' set for release. Despite the challenges of being an independent artist, his track has already gained significant traction on platforms like Spotify.

“The original and club mixes together have been played more than 7,000 times on Spotify,” he says. “I think it would be super cool if after this everyone in Australia is singing and dancing to Kangaroo Time. You never know.”

WELI's victory in the 2024 Dance Your PhD competition marks a significant achievement, making him the first from ANU and the fourth from an Australian institution to claim the top spot since the competition's inception in 2008.

The video was produced by Nic Vevers and the Australian National University (ANU).