OPERA: The Drover's Wife - Opera Australia, Oombarra Productions, QPAC

Title: The Drover’s Wife

Presented By: QPAC (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) in association with Opera Australia & Oombarra Productions

Genre: Opera / Contemporary Australian / Drama

Synopsis: Based on Leah Purcell’s acclaimed play, novel, and film, The Drover’s Wife – The Opera is a powerful reimagining of Henry Lawson’s classic Australian story. Set in the Snowy Mountains, Molly Johnson is left alone to protect her children in a remote bush shanty while her husband is away droving. When Yadaka, an Aboriginal man fleeing colonial authorities, enters her world, long-buried truths and shared histories of survival and violence collide.

Blending grand opera traditions with contemporary First Nations storytelling, this production features a sweeping score by George Palmer performed live by the Queensland Symphony Orchestra, capturing both the beauty and brutality of the Australian landscape.

Performance Dates: May 13th - 22nd, 2026

Performance Times:

• Tuesday - Friday - 7PM

• Saturday - 7:30PM

Performance Location and Address: Glasshouse Theatre, QPAC, Corner Grey Street & Russell Street, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia

Ticket Costs: From $89 (plus booking fees)

Ticket Link: Buy Tickets - The Drover's Wife

Warnings: Contains graphic depictions of violence, violence against women, racism, replica firearms, and gunshot effects

Recommended Age: 16+

Duration: Approx. 2 hours 50 minutes (including interval)

Cast: Includes Nina Korbe & Marcus Corowa

Creative Team:

• Leah Purcell (Director / Libretto)

• George Palmer (Composer)

Production Website: QPAC - The Drover's Wife

Other information:

• This is a large-scale Australian opera co-commissioned by QPAC and Opera Australia, staged in the new Glasshouse Theatre. It features live orchestration by the Queensland Symphony Orchestra and blends First Nations storytelling with classical opera form.

• Accessible performances (including Auslan interpreted and audio-described sessions) are scheduled across the season, with details available via QPAC.