QPAC

We pay our respects to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ancestors of this land, their spirits and their legacy. The foundations laid by these ancestors give strength, inspiration and courage to current and future generations, both First Nations and non-First Nations peoples, towards creating a better Queensland.

Book a group of 4 or more and save $40+^!

Plus, join us at Storytelling for Healing, a panel discussion inspired by Lose to Win. Find out more about the event here.

Buy Tickets

$59 *

* A transaction fee of $7.50 applies.

1 hour 10 minutes

no interval, subject to change without notice

Funny, moving and unforgettable – a deeply personal story told live on stage

From South Sudan to Egypt to Brisbane, this is the remarkable true story of Mandela Mathia – told in his own words, with warmth, humour and heart. Lose to Win is a joyful, poignant solo show that celebrates resilience, community and the power of imagination – brought to life with live music and disarming honesty.

“In this country, you think it’s your right to have three meals a day. Me, where I came from? I think it’s a miracle.”

Fleeing his war-torn home as a child, Mandela spent many years searching for safety, identity and belonging. Now, he shares that journey in a disarming and unexpectedly funny performance that invites us to see the world through his eyes.

This is more than a story of survival – it’s a celebration of the South Sudanese community, of finding joy in the face of adversity, and of what it means to create a home.

Direct from Belvoir St Theatre and expertly directed by Jessica Arthur (The Dictionary of Lost Words), Lose to Win is an astonishing modern Australian story that will stay with you long after the final bow.

Strictly limited season – reserve your seat today!

★★★★

It’s that big smile again. He can say something difficult with a grin and we smile back.

Sydney Arts Guide
Not a soul is born without a backstory, but few are as gripping as Mandela Mathia’s.

Sydney Morning Herald
Mandela Mathia has an extraordinary stage presence – warm and generous spirited.

Theatre Reds
The solo performance format can place weighty demands on an actor, but Mandela Mathia breezily rises to the challenge, telling his arresting life story with warmth, charm and humour.

South Sydney Herald

Recommended for ages 15+.

This production contains references to death and violence specifically in the contexts of civil war and gangs as well as lived experiences of racism. It also includes the use of strobe lighting, haze and loud sounds.

The Cremorne Theatre Visual and Sensory Guide [PDF, 2 MB] provides information on what you can expect while visiting QPAC.

QTIX is our official ticketing service with selected packages sold through authorised resellers only. Read more about purchasing tickets online.

Four Ticket Offer

Great discounts available for groups of 4+.

^Must purchase 4 or more tickets in one transaction and select ‘4+ Tickets’ in your basket from the drop-down option. Only available on select reserves, performances and standard pricing.