Nadine McDonald-Dowd
Biography
Nadine McDonald-Dowd, a Yuwi woman from Mackay, Queensland, serves as the Director of Straight from the Strait. With a deep-rooted passion for First Nations storytelling, Nadine brings a wealth of experience and creativity to this groundbreaking musical production.
‘Nadine’s journey in the arts began in the 1990’s working with newly established Kooemba Jdarra indigenous Performing Arts. She became Artistic Director from 2001 and since then, she has undertaken creative roles in cultural institutions such as Major Brisbane Festivals, La Boite Theatre, kuril dhagun at the State Library of Queensland, and Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) while also producing key First Nations Events such as ‘Clancestry’, “Out of the Box’ and ‘Festival 2018 – Commonwealth Games.’
As Director of “Straight from the Strait,” Nadine’s leadership and commitment to authenticity shine through in every aspect of the production. With her extensive background in blak dramaturgy and theatre making, she ensures that the storytelling is rich, vibrant, and true to the cultural heritage of the Torres Strait while showcasing the richness and deadliness of First Nations artists both onstage and off.
Beyond her directorial duties, Nadine is deeply involved in First Nations Arts advocacy, serving on a number of boards and committees dedicated to advancing representation in the arts. Close to her heart is working with artists, learning from artists, and collaborating with artists to enable their voices to stand front and centre. Nothing about us without us. She is continuously inspired by the wealth of talent and commitment of our First Nations artists and creatives.
As the director of Straight from the Strait, she continues to uplift audiences with her transformative artistic vision and unwavering dedication to her craft.