Clancestry 2023

Overview

Every year since 2013, QPAC has thrown open its doors to an annual celebration of First Nations culture. Via a lineup of performances, workshops and conversations, Clancestry delves into traditional and contemporary creative endeavours, showcasing the works of Indigenous Australians.

Whether you're keen to see a stellar theatre production or listen to tunes, the 2023 festival features another diverse lineup of events from Wednesday, November 8–Sunday, November 12 — and with a hefty lineup of contributors. More than 100 First Nations artists are supported by the fest, which proves the case each year, including with Clancestry reaching its tenth anniversary in 2023.

Highlights include opening ceremony First Gathering, plus performances William Barton: Sky Songs and Song Circle, with the latter featuring Shane Howard, Troy Cassar-Daley, Dan Sultan, Neil Murray and Sara Storer — and with stories a focus as much of songs. Or, via Emily Wells' Face to Face, attendees can catch a drama about two women disconnected from Country, in a new season of the production that first premiered at Metro Arts in 2022.

At the South Bank Cultural Forecourt outside QPAC, a Festival Ground site is popping up to host First Nations music by sunset on the Mob Music Stage. On the lineup: The Andrew Gurruwiwi Band, J-MILLA, Cloe Tarere, Tjaka, BIRDZ, Fred Leone and more.

If you fancy learning a new skill, weaving workshops that'll get you using recycled materials are on the agenda on Saturday, November 11–Sunday, November 12. And for families, theatre show Bubs and Cuzzies promises an all-ages delight.