In The Haus: Isaac Drandic

With a serendipitous start to his career, Isaac Drandic has become a pivotal figure in Australian theatre, especially in projects that highlight indigenous stories and voices. Now, Drandic brings his visionary direction to Queensland Theatre’s ’37’, a production that combines AFL with Aboriginal dance and ceremony, creating a dynamic theatrical experience and reflecting Drandic’s commitment to storytelling.

In this In The Haus special, we speak to Drandic about how his early experiences and influences have shaped his directorial approach. His work not only entertains but also educates and enlightens audiences about Indigenous Australian culture.

We’d love to know more about the beginning of your career – where and how did you get your start? 

My big sister Shiralee Hood was the Co-ordinator for Indigenous Programs at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA). She set up the Aboriginal Theatre Program that still runs today and needed a 10th person to make it an accredited course (that’s the story she told me). She asked if I would be the extra “statistic” – I said, “No way”, She said, “I’ll give you $100 to do it for three days”, I said “Done” and I haven’t looked back. So basically, a bribe is the reason I’m here.

What or who were some of your early influences or inspirations that shaped your career?

My big sister, my mum, Kelton Pell, Rachael Maza, Noongar Theatre, Yirra Yaakin Theatre Company, ILBIJERRI Theatre Company and many more. My sister dragged me along to the theatre as a kid (she didn’t have to drag me for long) and I saw my own experiences and stories of my people on stage. I thought it was amazing to see Noongar people like Kelton Pell, Derek Nannup, Aunty Lynette Narkle, Bobbi Henry standing so tall and speaking about what matters.

What are some of the most defining moments or milestones in your career so far?

• Working with some of my heroes on Bindjareb Pinjarra (Western Australia’s longest continuous-running play) and learning Noongar theatre/storytelling values.
• Collaborating and working with the legendary Archie Roach on his concert show Into the Bloodstream.
• Working with Rachael Maza who helped me develop my craft as an actor/director and influenced my politics within the theatre industry.
• Working with Nadja Kostich who showed me the power of physical theatre.
• My partnership and ongoing collaboration with Nathan Maynard.

What is a quirky fact about you? 

I’m the biggest bogan (after Nathan Maynard) in the theatre industry. It is hotly contested between us but after Nathan pitched his first play The Season at the Major Festivals Initiative in denim jeans, steel cap boots and a flannelette shirt, he took home the trophy.

What are you currently working on and how has that creative process been?

Working on Nathan Maynard’s 37 and directing a cast of 10 men. There’s a dynamic crossover between AFL footy and Aboriginal dance and ceremony. It’s been like facilitating a big corroboree. I’m loving working with movement and text and drawing from performance styles that have been around for thousands of years.

What’s in your rehearsal bag that you can’t go without? 

It’s a state of mind: connection to country, open-mindedness, curiosity, kindness, play, a sense of humour, my own storytelling values, and several note pads.

Do you have a reading, teaching/advice, institution or resource that changed your life/perspective, which you’d recommend to others?

The power of country and its invitation to access the creative flow state. Elders, community. Acknowledging my ancestors and everyone’s ancestors and asking for guidance. Directors don’t have all the answers.

What advice would you give to a young person today aspiring to walk in your shoes? 

Know who you are and where you come from. Don’t compromise on your values. Integrity is key. Listen and learn from elders (from all cultural backgrounds) they want to pass on knowledge you’ll find invaluable. Read and watch as much theatre as you can.

What are your future aspirations or projects that you’re excited about?

To coach the West Coast Eagles football team lol. No, I’m very happy making theatre. I’m so excited to bring 37 to audiences in Brisbane and continue our rich program of First Nations storytelling at Queensland Theatre.

Theatre Haus is the ‘home of theatre’, where, what or who do you call home?

Home is where the heart is. In Gimuy (Cairns) with my wife and kids.
My spiritual home will always be Noongar boodjar (south-west Western Australia).
My theatre home is Queensland Theatre.

Isaac Drandic returns to Queensland Theatre to direct Dear Brother in September. Drandic’s latest directorial masterpiece, 37, performs at Queensland Theatre until Saturday 4 May 2024. For tickets and booking information, visit Queensland Theatre’s website. 

Want to feature in our In The Haus series? Email [email protected].