When Dear Son premieres at Queensland Theatre this month, Torres Strait Islander actor Jimi Bani will step onto the stage to help bring to life a collection of powerful letters that explore fatherhood, culture and connection.

Based on the book by Kaurareg Aboriginal and Kalkalgal, Erubamle Torres Strait Islander man, Thomas Mayo, 'Dear Son' features personal letters written by 12 prominent Indigenous men, reflecting on their relationships with their sons, fathers and nephews.

For the Wadagadum man of Mabuiag Island, Mr Bani, the production is an opportunity to share stories that are rarely spoken publicly.

"First of all, it's a really brave and courageous project," he told National Indigenous Times.

"I give props to Thomas Mayo for putting it together and to all the men who gave their time to write these letters.

"These are stories we don't usually hear."

Mr Bani said the portrayal of men in Australia often leaves little room for emotional expression.

"In this country, there's a certain way men are often portrayed," he said.

"We don't talk unless we're fishing or hanging out with brothers where we feel most comfortable.

"But to have these letters written, painted up, and printed - I'm really proud of all the men involved."

As both a father and a son who was close to his late father and uncles, Mr Bani said the project had personal meaning.

"This project really spoke to me. It's about telling the real stories. When Isaac [Drandic] mentioned it to me, I was all in," he said.

"This is the voice that needs to be heard."

Mr Bani described Dear Son as a rare insight into men's business, offering audiences a glimpse into conversations that are usually private.

"We're going on stage in a public space and inviting people into what's usually private - men's business. But there's a real need to share these stories."

He said Dear Son creates a unique environment for audiences to listen and reflect.

"It's interesting because it's a very private space, both in real life and culturally," he said.

"But theatre creates an environment where people come, sit quietly, and really listen.

"Outside, when men talk about these things, it often gets brushed off. On stage, people pay attention. It gives us the opportunity to share things that aren't often heard in society."

Mr Bani hopes audiences leave with a deeper sense of responsibility and connection.

"The importance lies in what audiences take from it. It's about passing knowledge and sharing stories," he said.

He emphasised the messages in Dear Son are not only for First Nations audiences but for everyone.

"Hopefully it will translate to everybody. No matter what colour you are, you can ask yourself: what am I doing to empower my son, my nephew, my grandson?"

Mr Bani also reflected on the experience of working alongside a strong cast and creative team, including Aaron Pedersen, Trevor Jamieson, Kirk Page and Waangenga Blanco.

"It's a blessing working with everyone. We're all learning from each other."

"Led by Deborah, Isaac, and having Aaron here, and Kirk, Trev, Waangenga — it's a blessing.

"We're sharing with each other, and even in rehearsal, the show is already happening."

The production is directed by Noongar man Isaac Drandic, known for his work on 37 and Dear Brother, and adapted with Mr John Harvey.

'Dear Son' will run from 28 June to 19 July at Queensland Theatre's Bille Brown Theatre in South Brisbane.