Overview
Buthalangi and Munya’s story.
A mother and daughter’s journey back.
Written and Directed by Leah Purcell.
Based on the books Is That You, Ruthie? – first published by the University of Queensland Press in 1999 – and Buthalangi: A Maranoa Woman written by Dr Ruth Hegarty.
Is That You, Ruthie? is a poignant exploration of a mother and daughter’s enduring connection; a deeply moving play that delves into the complex aftermath of a government removal policy that separated a mother (Ruby) and daughter (Ruthie) from 1930 to 1957, leaving scars that could never fully heal.
The adaptation of Dr Ruth Hegarty’s David Unaipon award-winning novel Is That You, Ruthie? for the stage by Leah Purcell shares a personal and profound chapter of Australia’s truth-telling history. We witness a relationship forever altered by the dormitory system’s cruel legacy. Though they tried to rebuild what was lost, the bond between mother and daughter would never be the same.
Ruthie’s story – of separation from her mother – is not unique. What she endured, affected many young First Nations girls and boys across Australia.
Is That You, Ruthie? is a raw and heartfelt portrayal of two souls navigating the depths of their shared history. It's a story of resilience, courage, and the enduring human spirit. We delve into the complexities of family ties, and discover whether the estranged love of a mother and daughter can bridge the gaps that time and tragedy have carved.
An unforgettable and timely journey through the pages of Australia’s past.
Two hearts breaking
Silently waiting to touch
No one hearing the sounds
Unable to see the tears
Across the large rooms
Their silence pounds
A message of love breaks
Their hearts – explode
Not hearing
Yet knowing
I am here.
Is That You, Ruthie? Program
From the Newsroom
You may also like
-
Gurril Storm Bird QPAC’s Out of the Box Gurril Storm Bird
18 - 21 Jun 2025Cremorne TheatreAdapted from the prize-winning children’s picture book, Gurril by Gimuy Walubara Yidinji man Trevor (Bumi) Fourmile, is an exciting opportunity for children to experience the First Nations story told by jarjum.
-
The Visitors featuring the 2023 cast Image by Stephen Wilson Barker Clancestry The Visitors
23 - 26 Jul 2025PlayhouseIt’s January 1788 and a mysterious fleet is amassing in the harbour. Seven clan leaders make a momentous decision: to send these strangers on their way or welcome them?
-
Capricorn by Aidan Rowlingson
Rent NowDigital StageExplore the tumultuous love story of Sam and Ally in this gripping play that delves into the complexities of relationships, love, and loss.
-
The Dictionary of Lost Words Lisa White The Dictionary of Lost Words
26 Apr - 10 May 2025PlayhousePip Williams’ New York Times bestseller The Dictionary of Lost Words is brought to vivid life in this wildly popular stage adaptation.
-
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)
15 May - 8 Jun 2025Cremorne TheatreExperience all 37 plays ... in 97 minutes ... with just 3 hilarious actors!
-
Frankenstein Frankenstein
24 May - 8 Jun 2025PlayhouseMary Shelley’s Frankenstein is an electrifying tale of creation and humanity, retold in a large-scale theatrical event, returning to QPAC’s Playhouse.
-
Where is the Green Sheep? QPAC’s Out of the Box Where is the Green Sheep?
17 - 22 Jun 2025PlayhouseMonkey Baa Theatre Company’s world premiere, is an immersive visual theatre experience based on the beloved children’s book by Mem Fox and Judy Horacek.
-
The Gruffalo QPAC’s Out of the Box The Gruffalo
17 - 22 Jun 2025Lyric TheatreAfter sell-out seasons across the world, including London’s West End and Broadway, The Gruffalo returns to QPAC for songs, laughs and scary fun.
-
Terika, an artist from Jarjum Life Museum QPAC’s Out of the Box Jarjum Life Museum
17 - 22 Jun 2025QPAC TunnelWelcome to Jarjum Life Museum – a museum made by children – Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Jarjum.
-
Art Box for Kids: Mandy Quadrio QPAC’s Out of the Box Art Box for Kids: Mandy Quadrio
17 - 22 Jun 2025Gallery 1.4, GOMAPeople have been using Tasmanian bull kelp as a material for thousands of years. Create your own unique paper carrier to hold your special treasures at GOMA.
-
Wonderbox QPAC’s Out of the Box Wonderbox
18 - 21 Jun 2025Playhouse Studio 1With immersive projections, delightful surprises, and kooky-carnival characters, every child’s curiosity is celebrated.
-
The Lost Lending Library Image by Mihaela Bodlovic QPAC’s Out of the Box The Lost Lending Library
18 - 22 Jun 2025Playhouse Band RoomAt 314 floors high and with 72 spiral side departments, enter the largest collection of books in the world and discover a magical world.