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Past Event

28 — 31 Aug

Straight From The Strait

Presented by Opera Queensland, Yumpla Nerkep Foundation and QPAC, in Association with Brisbane Festival

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Straight From The Strait
Straight From The Strait

A Torres Strait Island Musical

On 8 May 1968, a group of remarkable Torres Strait Islander workers on the vast expanse of the Mount Newman railway construction project shattered a world record as they laid down an astonishing 7km of track in a single day, an unparalleled feat that still stands unchallenged. At the heart of their extraordinary achievement is the power of song – songs that are unique to Australia, that tell a passionate and inspiring story.

Straight from the Strait pays homage to the stories of these Torres Strait Islander men and women who ventured far from their homes in pursuit of employment on the mainland. Amid the gruelling labour, they discovered a sense of camaraderie that transcended boundaries. Their sweat and toil laid the foundation for Australia’s emergence as an industrial nation.

This production reverberates with the power of song, a harmonious fusion of traditional Torres Strait music and contemporary melodies. Through the vibrant ancestral languages of Meriam Mir, Kala Lagaw Ya and Torres Strait Creole combined with English and the backbeat of a contemporary band, it tells a tale that pulses with passion and inspiration.

Developed through collaboration and consultation with the Yumpla Nerkep Foundation and Torres Strait Islander artists, Elders, and communities, this project is led by a team of First Nations creatives, performers, musicians, and cultural advisors.

We acknowledge the many Torres Strait Islander families and artists who have generously contributed to this project.


Price

$81 - $90

Times

1:30pm and 7pm
Click 'Book now' to see all show times

Auslan interpreted performance Fri 30 Aug, 7pm
Audio described performance Sat 31 Aug, 1.30pm

Duration

Approximately 2 hr 20min including interval

Where

Playhouse, QPAC ›
Cnr Grey and, Melbourne St,
South Brisbane QLD 4101

Venue info

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

50% Visual Content.

Audio Described Event

Important Info

Suitable for all ages.

Lockout periods apply.

Performed in Meriam Mir, Kala Lagaw Ya, Torres Strait Creole and English with English surtitles.


Booking Methods

For alternative ways to book, or to discuss your accessibility requirements, call QTIX on 13 62 46 or email info@qtix.com.au.


Dates
28 — 31 Aug
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#Artist

Opera Queensland

Opera Queensland

Whether on the mainstage or in regional centres across Queensland, Opera Queensland is driven by the desire to bring audiences stories rich with music and song performed by the finest artists working today.


#Partners

How to get there

Playhouse, QPAC ›
Cnr Grey and, Melbourne St,
South Brisbane QLD 4101

Getting there

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