The acclaimed Yirra Yaakin Theatre Company has unveiled an exciting 2026 season packed with powerful contemporary stories that celebrate Aboriginal culture and showcase emerging First Nations talent at Subiaco Arts Centre.
Artistic director Maitland Schnaars and associate artistic director Bobbi Henry announced three Western Australian premiere productions that will explore themes of family, identity and legacy throughout the coming year.
Three Powerful Mainstage Productions
The 2026 season features three compelling mainstage shows that promise to deliver unforgettable theatre experiences. Katie Beckett's Which Way Home opens the season from April 28 to May 9, drawing from the playwright's personal memories of growing up with her single Aboriginal father.
This heartfelt production will feature real-life father and daughter performers Derek and Shaquita Nannup in the lead roles, bringing authentic chemistry to this touching father-daughter road trip narrative.
In July, Nathan Maynard's At What Cost? takes the stage, set in Tasmania and tackling complex issues around identity and what it means to be Aboriginal on Palawa country. The production promises to spark important conversations about contemporary Indigenous experiences.
The season concludes from October 23 with Jacky by Declan Furber Gillick, a co-production with Black Swan State Theatre Company. This funny yet fearless examination of survival and compromise offers a raw look at the challenges faced by Aboriginal people.
Community Engagement and Accessibility
Beyond the mainstage productions, Yirra Yaakin continues its commitment to nurturing the next generation of storytellers through community programs, young artists' initiatives, and educational opportunities including their Yirra Yaarnz program.
The company is introducing new affordable ticketing options to make theatre more accessible. The $30Under30 offer provides $30 tickets for patrons under 30 years old, while Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander audiences can access Mob Tix at the discounted rate of $25.
The 2026 season kicks off with the popular Family Picnic on February 22 in the grounds of Subiaco Arts Centre. This free community event invites families to connect with culture and contemporary Aboriginal theatre in a relaxed outdoor setting.
Celebrating Aboriginal Storytelling
Artistic director Maitland Schnaars emphasised the company's ongoing mission to tell Aboriginal stories authentically while creating valuable opportunities for Aboriginal artists both on and off stage.
Yirra Yaakin remains one of Australia's longest-standing and largest Aboriginal performing arts companies, maintaining its deep commitment to cultural celebration and artistic development.
The 2026 season represents another significant step in the company's growth, showcasing contemporary Aboriginal voices and experiences that deserve to be seen, shared and celebrated by wider audiences.
Bookings for all productions are now available through yirrayaakin.com.au as Perth prepares for another remarkable year of First Nations theatre excellence.
