Clancestry 2025

Celebrating First Nations arts and culture, Clancestry Festival returns to QPAC with an exciting program of concerts, workshops, theatre and children’s events from 23 July to 10 August, 2025

An iconic event part of QPAC’s calendar since 2013, Clancestry is a fascinating exploration of identity and connection, providing a platform for both established and emerging First Nations artists to share their stories, perspectives, and talents. 

Showcasing the rich and diverse creativity and performance culture of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, Clancestry is a signature festival for QPAC. Check out some of the highlights below.

THE VISITORS | Playhouse Theatre, 23-26 July, $79-$89*

Kicking off this year's festival, The Visitors is a riveting insight into one of the most impactful and painful days in Australia’s history, and a hugely entertaining study of how communities respond to change and the unknown.

It’s January 1788 and a mysterious fleet is amassing in the harbour. Seven clan leaders must make a momentous decision: to send these strangers on their way or welcome them? Co-produced by Moogahlin Performing Arts and Sydney Theatre Company, and directed by Quandamooka man Wesley Enoch.

 WATA: a gathering for songmen, improvising soloists and orchestra | Concert Hall, 31 July, $69-$89*

In a continuation of one of the most innovative and energising works to emerge in 2024, composer and pianist Paul Grabowsky will bring Queensland Symphony Orchestra (QSO) and Yolŋu songmen Daniel Ngukurr Boy Wilfred (voice and bilma) and David Yipininy Wilfred (yidaki) together in a work that celebrates the musical traditions of the Wagiluk people of Arnhem Land.

Wata is an invitation to experience a new form of musical collaboration within the manikay tradition – through a series of songs, passed down through generations.

BANGARRA DANCE THEATRE: ILLUME | Playhouse Theatre, 1-9 August. $69-$104*

Bangarra Dance Theatre’s association with the Clancestry program continues in 2025 with Illume; a new theatrical experience presented through a kaleidoscope of music, visual arts, and dance exploring the otherworldly language of light.

For Illume, Mirning Choreographer Frances Rings and Goolarrgon Bard Visual Artist Darrell Sibosado’s collaboration delves into the ways light has captivated and sustained Indigenous cultural existence for millennia. 

ELECTRIC FIELDS | Concert Hall, 2 August. $69-$89*

ARIA Award-winning duo Electric Fields and QSO will have the Concert Hall dancing with a captivating fusion of vibrant traditional culture with pop, soul, and electronica.

The extraordinary voice of Zaachariaha Fielding and brilliance of producer and keyboardist Michael Ross unite to showcase original compositions and traditional inma (traditional dance ceremony), bringing breathtaking moments of beauty and power to audiences.

Need to know - Clancestry’s free program, including Mob Music, weaving workshops, face painting, and children’s activities, will be announced in May.

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