Straight from the Strait

Groundbreaking musical Straight from the Strait, celebrating the resilience and cultural richness of Torres Strait Island communities, will premiere as part of the Brisbane Festival at Playhouse, QPAC from August 28-31, 2024.

Get set for an unforgettable evening as Straight from the Strait weaves together history, culture, and the universal power of music.

Developed in consultation with Torres Strait Island artists, Elders, and communities, Straight from the Strait pays tribute to the indomitable spirit of Torres Strait Islanders who left their homes to work on the Mount Newman railway in 1968. 

At its heart, the musical commemorates the legendary achievement of these workers, who set a world record by laying down 7km of track in a single day, a testament to their unity and resilience. 

Led by First Nations creatives, the production blends traditional Torres Strait music with contemporary melodies, performed in Meriam Mir, Kala Lagaw Ya, Torres Strait Creole, and English.

"This story is of personal importance to my family and many others from the Torres Strait, revealing a significant moment in history that all Australians can be proud of." – Aunty Ruth Ghee. 

Straight from the Strait is presented by Opera Queensland, Yumpla Nerkep Foundation, and Queensland Performing Arts Centre, in collaboration with Brisbane Festival.

Opera Queensland is a valued partner of Must Do Brisbane.com