Tribal Warrior Cements its spot in historic building

Tribal Warrior Aboriginal Corporation is celebrating a major milestone – the ownership of the ground floor at the iconic Black Theatre site, 27 Cope Street, Redfern. This is a powerful step forward, bringing new life and purpose to a site that has been central to Aboriginal arts and culture for decades.

The Black Theatre, established in the 1970s, was a cultural hub for Indigenous artists and performers, playing a crucial role in the emergence of contemporary Aboriginal theatre. Despite its closure in 1977, the legacy of the Black Theatre has continued to inspire generations, giving rise to organisations like Bangarra Dance Theatre and Moogahlin Performing Arts.

For Tribal Warrior, this space means more than history—it’s a chance to continue a tradition of cultural empowerment and connection. Founded by local Elders, Tribal Warrior has been dedicated to supporting Aboriginal people through training, mentoring, and building leadership within the community. Having a home at the Black Theatre site is a chance to deepen those roots and honour the generations that came before.

The Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation (ILSC) acquired the Black Theatre site from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC) in 2005, with the intention of engaging the local Indigenous community in its future use.

Following extensive consultation, the ILSC redeveloped the site, completing a $7.5 million project in 2008, which saw the establishment of facilities aimed at supporting Indigenous enterprises.

“The ILSC is proud to be here today for the divestment of the ground floor of the Black Theatre building in Redfern to Tribal Warrior,” said ILSC Group Chief Executive Officer Joe Morrison.

“This significant step ensures that this culturally important site continues to serve the Indigenous community, fostering social and economic empowerment, and truly cements Tribal Warriors spot in the historic site.”

Tribal Warrior was established in 1998 and was driven by a vision to empower the Redfern community and beyond. Since its founding, Tribal Warrior has become a respected force for social transformation, blending tradition with practical support to uplift and connect Aboriginal people.

Tribal Warrior offers a range of programs including maritime training, mentoring, cultural tours, and support services, providing practical pathways, skills development, and meaningful community connection.

Tribal Warrior remains dedicated to fostering community engagement and support, ensuring the Black Theatre site continues to be a vibrant hub where Indigenous voices are heard, and Indigenous businesses can flourish.



L to R Nyaree Mewett, Sonia Hayes, Shane Phillips and Mark Spinks (c) Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation.