Bangarra Dance Theatre’s powerful new triple bill Sheltering is heading to QPAC

Taking over the Glasshouse Theatre from July 9–18, Sheltering features Keeping Grounded, Brown Boys and Sheoak – three distinct works connected by an exploration of ‘shelter’ as something far deeper than physical space. Across the program, shelter becomes a sacred place of protection, memory and cultural knowledge carried across generations.

The opening performance is Keeping Grounded, choreographed by Indjalandji-Dhidhanu and Alyewarre woman Glory Tuohy-Daniell. Originally developed through Bangarra’s Dance Clan 2023 initiative, the work reflects on the challenge of staying culturally and spiritually grounded in a world increasingly shaped by technology and constant movement. Through Bangarra’s striking choreography, the piece explores our energetic connection to the earth.

The program then shifts into Brown Boys, a genre-defying dance film created by Daniel Mateo and Cass Mortimer Eipper. Inspired by Mateo’s own poetry and experiences as a Gomeroi and Tongan man, the deeply personal work traces the experiences of younger Indigenous men, blending movement with cinematic storytelling to address themes of identity, vulnerability and belonging.

Closing the bill is Sheoak, choreographed by Mirning woman Frances Rings with music by Munaldjali and Nunukul man and renowned composer David Page. First premiering in 2015, this acclaimed work draws inspiration from the sheoak tree, long recognised as a symbol of strength and endurance within First Nations culture. The piece explores resilience and the connection between people, spirit and place.

Together, the works showcase the breadth of Bangarra Dance Theatre’s creative voice – from emerging choreographers and filmmakers through to some of the company’s most celebrated creative figures.