The Aboriginal Centre for the Performing Arts (ACPA) is dedicated to the development and training of Indigenous performing artists. 

Our organisation provides a friendly, stimulating and supportive learning environment for students committed to being the best in the performing arts. If you have a burning desire to perform, ACPA will train you to express it to the world.  Dream it-Make it Happen enquire today about an application form click here.  ACPA is committed to high quality, culturally appropriate and accessible training.  Our trainers work with students to help them achieve their educational goals and ‘Make it Happen’.  ACPA trainers are currently employed in their profession which ensures students receive up-to-date training on Industry trends and assists in providing that 'insider knowledge' to help students in their educational journey.

ACPA offers four courses:- Certificate III in Performing Arts, Certificate IV in Performing Arts, Diploma of Performing Arts and Advanced Diploma of Performing Arts.   Specialty areas include dance, acting, music and singing. The ACPA Brochure and Handbook outlines additional information.  Download 5 Easy Steps into ACPA for an overview of our Centre and more info about the courses. 

The Aboriginal Centre for the Performing Arts is located at South Brisbane just a short stroll from the city, and Southbank and is close to the vibrant heart of West End.  ACPA is easily accessible by public transport and there are many parking stations within easy walking distance.  

A message from the Artistic Director
My name is Lafe Charlton and I am the Artistic Director of the Aboriginal Centre for the Performing Arts.
 
I am a member of the Goenpul people of North Stradbroke Island in Moreton Bay, South East Queensland. 

Over a long period of time I have developed strong connections in the Brisbane Arts and Indigenous Communities. I have worked in various productions TV, film and live theatre as an actor.

I am privileged to have worked and played a role in the development of Indigenous arts in Queensland having facilitated many productions and projects over the past 18 years.  I spent 5 years with CONTACT
Youth Theatre as the Murri Programs Coordinator and helped establish the Indigenous Theatre Company ‘Kooemba Jdarra.  I am committed to the development of Indigenous arts and the role its
plays in the evolution of the Australian culture and consciousness.

 I was recently humbled to receive the Indigenous Facilitators Prize in 2004 as part of the Sidney Myer Performing Arts Awards for my work in the development of Indigenous arts.

Along with the Aboriginal Centre for the Performing Arts Board, my team of dedicated  administration staff and our trainers and assessors we all work to provide a quality training environment to allow you to Dream it -  Make it Happen.  The ACPA structure and vision.

Our Vision
The Aboriginal Centre for the Performing Arts is an inspirational centre of excellence and innovation in the Australian Indigenous performing arts, being the school of choice committed to the development of world class artists that embraces Indigenous cultural achievements and contributes to Australia's cultural identity.

ACPA provides a nurturing environment that celebrates artistic excellence in contemporary performing arts practice and training, and gives a ‘voice’ to the next generation of Indigenous Australian performing artists.

Our Values
• Indigenous ethics and protocols Respect, Responsibility and Relationships
• Inspiration
• Accessibility
• Diversity

ACPA Board
The Aboriginal Centre for the Performing Arts (ACPA) is a single member company limited by shares owned by the State of Queensland.  ACPA is a not-for-profit company.

ACPA Board members are appointed by the Minister for Arts Ms Anna Bligh.  Board members do not receive sitting fees.   

Denise Andrews – Chair
Denise is an energetic and committed Chairperson of ACPA, who is inspired by the talent and determination of Indigenous Youth.  Denise works with Telstra, Human Resources and has a Masters of Indigenous Social Policy from the University of Technology, Sydney, a Bachelor of Education, Adult Education from the University of Technology, Sydney and an Associate Diploma in Business - Accounting from Queensland University of Technology.  

Flo Watson
Mrs Flo Watson is a member of the Ghunghanghi People, the traditional owners of Yarrabah, North Queensland.  Flo owns and operates Jinnadirran Training and Consultancy Services which is committed to working in partnership with other Indigenous trainers and consultants to promote self-determination for Indigenous Australians and also works in partnership with non-Indigenous trainers and consultants to progress the process of reconciliation.  Flo has received her Certificate IV in Assessment and Workplace Training.  Flo is also on the Board of Brisbane Indigenous media Association – Murri Country 4AAA.

Sheryl Sandy
Sheryl works for the Brisbane City Council  in various positions including Acting Principled Equity Advisor and is the Equity and Diversity Specialist.  Sheryl has a Bachelor or Business (Public Administration) from the Queensland University of Technology and is a Qualified Justice of the Peace.  Sheryl is on various Boards.

Lana Gishkariany
Lana is the Secretary of the Board and is passionate about the arts.  Lana is currently studying for her Graduate Certificate in Business (Finance) at QUT.  Lana has also completed her Bachelor of business (Marketing) from QUT and has completed a Seniors Acting Course from T.A.F.T.A .  Lana has over 15 years experience in the alternative music scene as a band manger, publicist, event coordinator, web designer, songwriter, guitarist and vocalist.  Lana was also the Artistic Director for Backbone Youth Arts Inc from 1999 to early 2002 and was also the Queensland State Editor for the National Youth Performing Arts Journal.  Lana has also been a Youth Panel Member on the Australia Council.

Chris Mangin
Chris Mangin works as the Chief Executive of Opera Queensland.   Chris has also worked as the Director of the Australia Council and various other positions.  Chris has a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Canterbury, Christchurch and a Diploma of Teaching from Secondary Division Christchurch Teachers Training College.  Chris was admitted as an Associate Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management (AFAIM)  in 1994 and is a qualified Justice of the Peace (NSW).
In April 2004 Chris was awarded a Centenary Medal for service to the Arts and Community as General Manager of Opera Queensland.