Yirra Yaakin Theatre Company
Yirra Yaakin (Yir-raarh Yaarh-kin] which means “Stand Tall” in Noongar language, is one of Australia’s leading Aboriginal performing arts organisations, situated in Boorloo on Whadjuk Noongar Country, Yirra Yaakin Theatre Company produces award-winning, world-class theatre that is exciting, insightful, authentic, and culturally appropriate.
Yirra Yaakin Theatre Company is a locally cherished and nationally important company that supports Aboriginal theatre and culture. We are committed to fostering the next generation of Aboriginal artists, sharing incredible stories told through an Aboriginal lens, and constantly expanding our community engagement and education programs.
For over 30 years, Yirra Yaakin has commissioned and premiered over 60 new theatre works that have reached 13 countries in five continents, and has won awards for their theatre, governance, and their partnerships, including a prestigious Sidney Myer Award for their record of facilitating Indigenous artistic programs. Some of their work include major Festival presentations such as Waltzing the Wilarra, One Day in 67, Aliwah, Windmill Baby, Cruel Wild Woman, Hecate (adapted and directed by Kylie Bracknell [Kaarljilba Kaardn]) and Panawathi Girl.
Under the artistic direction of Maitland Schnaars (Nyaki-Nyaki) the company is forging a path in the cultural landscape of Australia and beyond with metro, regional and national touring productions. Beyond the stage Yirra Yaakin’s highly impactful programs support the next generation of Aboriginal artists. Ngalaka Daa (a collaboration with the WA Youth Theatre Company) shares Noongar language and stories with young creatives living on Whadjuck country, and Yirra Yaarnz Writers’ Group, a culturally safe, immersive and vibrant playwrighting program.
Yirra Yaakin Theatre Company leads by honouring the past, investing in the future, and embracing the diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Theatre. We respect the generations past and invest in a thriving future for our artists and arts workers.