Australasian Dance Collective (ADC) returns in 2026 with the fourth iteration of its much-loved contemporary dance showcase THREE — a bold, emotionally charged triple bill that celebrates distinctive choreographic voices and the extraordinary versatility of ADC’s Company Artists.
Described as “a show which will remind you what it feels like to be human – to be alive,” THREE brings together two world premieres and a Queensland-first from acclaimed Australian choreographers Amber McCartney, Joel Bray and Harrison Ritchie-Jones. Each work offers a strikingly different lens on the body, identity and human connection, creating a richly textured evening of contemporary performance.
Amber McCartney: a visceral world premiere
Rejoining THREE, Amber McCartney delivers a powerful new commission that leans into her signature physical intensity. Known for works that blur the boundaries between human and alien, McCartney’s choreography is bold, unsettling and deeply compelling. Her movement language pushes the body to its limits, inviting audiences into a world that feels both primal and otherworldly.
Harrison Ritchie-Jones brings CUDDLE to Queensland
Brisbane audiences will experience CUDDLE, the acclaimed work by guest artist Harrison Ritchie-Jones, performed alongside Michaela Tancheff. This high-octane duet is a kinetic collision of absurdity, humour and fierce physicality, unfolding within an immersive sound and visual landscape. The result is an encounter that is as playful as it is confronting — and unlike anything audiences have seen before.
Joel Bray completes the triptych 
Completing the program is a new work by Wiradjuri choreographer Joel Bray, whose deeply human approach to dance has earned national acclaim. Rich in storytelling and emotional nuance, Bray’s choreography invites reflection on identity, connection and shared experience. His work offers moments of wit, tenderness and resonance, grounding the program in lived humanity.
A platform for artistic range and risk
THREE remains a vital platform for artistic risk-taking and creative exchange, allowing ADC’s Company Artists to demonstrate remarkable range while elevating diverse choreographic voices. The program champions innovation, emotional depth and the power of contemporary dance to connect audiences to themselves and each other.
Insight Matinee for students and educators
An Insight Matinee will be held on Thursday 16 July at 12pm, created especially for school students, young dancers and educators. Led by ADC CEO and Artistic Director Amy Hollingsworth, the session will explore the creative development of each work and include a live Q&A. Audiences will also gain rare behind-the-scenes access by witnessing a technical changeover and learning more about the production elements that bring the works to life.
With its blend of physical virtuosity, immersive design and emotional storytelling, THREE continues to be one of ADC’s most anticipated offerings — a contemporary dance experience that is both challenging and profoundly alive.
Bookings: https://brisbanepowerhouse.org/events/australasian-dance-collective/
