Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) will showcase the evolution of Aboriginal song and dance in South East Queensland in its new free exhibition Tomorrow’s Traditions, running in the Tony Gould Gallery until 1 June.
Inspired by QPAC’s Clancestry events and recent research drawn from the Centre’s new digital platform Yawar – A Cultural Mapping Project, the exhibition explores the cultural traditions of the past, and draws on stories from songmen and songwomen who are dedicated to protecting and maintaining songs and dances for their families and communities. It celebrates the vibrancy and diversity of storytelling through dance by exploring movement, body paint, instruments, cultural exchange and – to coincide with the International Year of Indigenous Languages – language.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to hear music and song, play instruments and learn a dance. A public program of conversations will complement the exhibition and visitors can sit, listen and learn from a wide range of traditional and contemporary artists.
QPAC Chief Executive John Kotzas said Tomorrow’s Traditions recognised the importance of the creators of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander song, dance, music and theatre.
“It is fitting that as a major arts body, QPAC continues the traditions of those who have sung, danced and created stories here long before the Centre was built,” Kotzas said. “We are proud to have a team dedicated to First Nations programming and there is a lot happening for QPAC in this space that connects us with community and enriches the performing arts in this State. We look forward to revealing more details soon.”
Tomorrow’s Traditions is open from 10am to 4pm, Tuesday to Saturday. The Tony Gould Gallery is located on the ground floor of QPAC at the entrance to the Cremorne Theatre.
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