Beneath the constellation of Bangarra Dance Theatre’s creative and cultural legacy, experience a program of three powerful works: Keeping Grounded, Brown Boys, and Sheoak, which honour Bangarra’s past while looking to the future.
An intergenerational thread connects this bold triple-bill, drawing deeply from First Nations perspectives, and offering a profound journey into the intricate bonds between people and place. Rooted in Indigenous knowledge, the concept of shelter is reimagined as a sacred, transformative space: a haven of protection, connection, and the sharing of stories across generations.
Keeping Grounded
Keeping Grounded, choreographed by Indjalandji-Dhidhanu and Alyewarre woman Glory Tuohy-Daniell, is a poignant exploration on our energetic connection to the earth and ancestral land. Born of Dance Clan 2023 and reimagined for a new stage, this piece explores the challenges of staying culturally and physically grounded in a world increasingly shaped by technological advancement.
Brown Boys
Brown Boys is a groundbreaking dance film directed by Daniel Mateo and Cass Mortimer Eipper. Visually poetic and deeply personal, it delves into the experiences of young Indigenous men, exploring identity, belonging, and cultural connection. Inspired by Mateo’s own poetry, the film intimately portrays his journey as a Gamilaroi and Tongan man – blending dance, narrative, and cinematic artistry. This work was first presented in Dance Clan 2024.
Sheoak
Sheoak, choreographed by Mirning woman Frances Rings for Bangarra Dance Theatre with music by Munaldjali and Nunukul man and renowned composer David Page, is a deeply affecting work exploring themes of resilience, connection to country, and cultural identity. The work, which premiered in 2015 as part of the double bill Lore under Munaldjali and Nunukul man Stephen Page’s artistic direction, draws inspiration from the sheoak tree – a powerful symbol in Indigenous Australian culture known for its strength, adaptability, and deep meaning.
Together, these three works engage with vital First Nations social and cultural issues, reminding us of the spirit at the heart of indigenous worldviews and the enduring connections between people, land, and spirit.
For 2026, we invite Community to join us for the first performance of Sheltering. The Community First performance includes a ‘pre-show yarn’ and complimentary tea and coffee; a unique and personal gathering before the curtain rises. Community members also have the chance to meet and talk directly with Bangarra’s dancers after the show. This is a special opportunity to connect, share stories, and celebrate the deep cultural threads woven through Bangarra’s work.
If you are unable to make it to our Community First performance, we also offer a dedicated allocation of subsidised Community tickets throughout the season, ensuring greater access and opportunities for Community to share in the experience of Bangarra’s storytelling.
Bangarra’s Community ticketing initiative is made possible through the generous support of The Balnaves Foundation.
Thu 9 July 2026, 7:30 PM, Sat 11 July 2026, 1:30 PM, Sat 11 July 2026, 7:30 PM, Tue 14 July 2026, 6:30 PM, Wed 15 July 2026, 12:30 PM, Wed 15 July 2026, 6:30 PM, Thu 16 July 2026, 7:30 PM, Fri 17 July 2026, 7:30 PM & Sat 18 July 2026, 1:30 PM
Trained Audio Describers offer a spoken word commentary that gently guides the listener through all aspects of the production – the physicality of the dancers, the colours and textures of the set, costume and lighting design, all interwoven with references to the Cultural foundations and storytelling that shape the work. Pre-show notes are available prior to the performance, providing insight into sections that cannot be described live, due to cultural protocols or sound levels. Description is relayed via a discreet headset using radio frequency. Please note, these Audio Described performances are pre-recorded and are not live.
Tactile Tour
Sat 18 July 2026, 2:45 PM
Tactile tours offer blind and low-vision patrons the chance to touch and examine props and costumes and hear the cast and crew describe the visual aspects of the production. This tour will take place after the Saturday, 18 July matinee.
Important Information
Cultural Content Advisory
This work honours the late David Page, whose music remains a living heartbeat within Bangarra’s story. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are advised that this content includes the name, voice and creative legacy of a person who has passed. Bangarra share this work with deep respect and love for David, his family, and community.
Duration
This performance includes three acts with no interval. Keeping Grounded: 24 minutes Brown Boys: 6 minutes Sheoak: 48 minutes
Accessibility at QPAC
For wheelchair users, Companion Card holders or those requiring assistance, dedicated seating options are available, and bookings can be made through QPAC's Call Centre by calling 136 246. You can also find information on access and accessibility at QPAC here.
