PRESENTED BY OPERA QUEENSLAND, YUMPLA NERKEP FOUNDATION AND QUEENSLAND PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE, IN ASSOCIATION WITH BRISBANE FESTIVAL

A Torres Strait Island Musical

On 8 May 1968, a group of remarkable Torres Strait Islander workers on the vast expanse of the Mount Newman railway construction project shattered a world record as they laid down an astonishing 7km of track in a single day, an unparalleled feat that still stands unchallenged. At the heart of their extraordinary achievement is the power of song – songs that are unique to Australia, that tell a passionate and inspiring story.

Straight from the Strait pays homage to the stories of these Torres Strait Islander men and women who ventured far from their homes in pursuit of employment on the mainland. Amid the gruelling labour, they discovered a sense of camaraderie that transcended boundaries. Their sweat and toil laid the foundation for Australia’s emergence as an industrial nation.

This production reverberates with the power of song, a harmonious fusion of traditional Torres Strait music and contemporary melodies. Through the vibrant ancestral languages of Meriam Mir, Kala Lagaw Ya and Torres Strait Creole combined with English and the backbeat of a contemporary band, it tells a tale that pulses with passion and inspiration.

Developed through collaboration and consultation with the Yumpla Nerkep Foundation and Torres Strait Islander artists, Elders, and communities, this project is led by a team of First Nations creatives, performers, musicians, and cultural advisors.

We acknowledge the many Torres Strait Islander families and artists who have generously contributed to this project.

Performed in Meriam Mir, Kala Lagaw Ya, Torres Strait Creole and English with English surtitles. Approximately 2 hr 20min including interval

CAST
Boyor Paul Isakara Williams
Kusa Harold Pascoe
Pinau Vaughan Wapau
Serai Gertrude Benjamin
Isobel Georgia Corowa
Mama Ghenoa Gela
Man Mountain Jalen Sutcliffe
Protector Man, Bradco Bala & John Richardson Zeek Power
Levi Joseph Tapau
Bobby B Edward Lampton
Jimmy Marcus Corowa
Sid Zane Lemusu
Uncle Reuben & Simeon Maurice Sailor
H&S Officer & Joe Kani Puru
Reporter Cleopatra Pryce

CREATIVE TEAM
Writer/Co-Librettist Norah Bagiri
Composer/Co-Librettist Rubina Kimiia
Director Nadine McDonald-Dowd
Co-Choreographer Cleopatra Pryce
Co-Choreographer Rita Pryce
Set Design Kevin O’Brien
Costume & Assistant Set Designer Zoe Rouse

BAND
Guitar Nathaniel Andrew
Bass, Traditional Percussion Will Kepa
Keys Michael Manikus
Keys Richard Saifoloi
Drumkit Sisa Koroi
Guitar & Traditional Percussion Dimple Bani

Cultural Advisors
Ruth Ghee, Tony Ghee (Eastern Islands), George Bagiri, Norah Bagiri (Western & Central Islands)

This project is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland, the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body, and the Torres Strait Regional Authority.

2024 Matilda Award Recognition

🏆 Best set design: Kevin O’Brien
🏆 Best lighting design: Jason Glenwright
🏆 Best musical or cabaret: Straight from the Strait
🏆 The judges’ award: Straight from the Strait

Download the digital program here.