This August at Darwin Festival, audiences can experience the worlds of classical music and theatre in a one-night spectacular event, Shakespeare & Symphony, at The Playhouse, AANT Centre, on Saturday 22 August. 
 
This concert brings together two of the Northern Territory’s renowned arts organisations, Darwin Symphony Orchestra and Brown’s Mart, for the first time in more than 30 years. It places Shakespeare’s timeless works in conversation with the living cultures of Indigenous Australia, creating a powerful meeting of music, theatre and storytelling. 
 
In this unique collaboration, celebrated First Nations and Territorian actors Rob Collins and Ursula Yovich will take centre stage to bring the words of Shakespeare vividly to life. Their powerful performances will be underscored by the rich, immersive sound of the Darwin Symphony Orchestra, adding depth, emotion and atmosphere to the storytelling. Together, music and spoken word will create a captivating theatrical experience that transports audiences to another era and into the heart of Shakespeare’s most enduring works. 
 
Richard Mills expressed his excitement about the significance of this performance: 

“The DSO is proud to collaborate with the iconic NT company Brown’s Mart to bring outstanding First Nations actors on a unique journey that celebrates both the musicality found within the spoken word and the transformation of those words into music by the great composers.” 

Rob Collins shared what he is most excited about in relation to the collaboration: 

“I’m most excited to be working with Ursula again! We’ve only ever worked on screen together, before so this is an exciting new chapter in our collaboration as artists and friends. I’m also excited and so privileged to be working with an artist of Richard Mills’ calibre. Together with the much-loved DSO, this performance will show only a taste of what is possible for the future of the Territory’s art sector.”  

Collins also shared his hopes for the impact the performance will have on audiences and the broader arts community: 

“Like any great writer, Shakespeare’s work opens the door to new voices and experiences, which is why he has continued to be performed for the last 400 years. My hope is that we see more First Nations & Territory performers, directors and companies performing and revitalising Shakespeare to reflect our own unique stories and sounds.” 

Whether you’re drawn to the timeless works of Shakespeare, the power of live orchestral music, or the excitement of a truly unique artistic collaboration, Shakespeare & Symphony is set to be a highlight of the 2026 Darwin Festival and an unforgettable night of storytelling and music.  

This is one not to miss – tickets are selling fast! 

 
Event Details 
Date: Saturday, 22 August 
Time: 7:30pm (Pre-concert talk at 6:30pm in The Gallery) 
Location: The Playhouse, AANT Centre 
Tickets now available: https://dso.org.au/shakespeare-and-symphony/