Biripi, Wiradjuri, and Yuin actor of Aboriginal, Native American, and Chinese heritage, Bee Cruse, is set to star in Belvoir's production of August: Osage County, in the role of Johnna Monevata.

The production, directed by Eamon Flack, promises a fresh perspective on Tracy Letts' acclaimed tragicomedy, with Ms Cruse portraying the Native American housekeeper amidst the family's unfolding drama.

"When I went for the role, it was actually on offer from the director," Ms Cruse said.

"I wasn't familiar with the story or the script, so I had to research the story itself."

Mr Flack emphasises the play's themes of land and ownership, pointing out that August: Osage County is named after the Osage Tribe's homeland in Oklahoma.

He draws a connection to Belvoir's role in sharing stories on Gadigal land, acknowledging the significance of Indigenous land throughout the story.

Ms Cruse's casting adds a layer of cultural depth to the play's exploration of generational pain and identity, resonating with her background as a queer Indigenous artist also invested in learning Gamilaraay and Dhurga, two of her grandparents' languages.

"Johnna being the only Native in the story—I felt very much like that growing up in the '90s, being the only Black kid at my primary and high school," she said.

"I feel like there is a part of me that is Johnna, and Johnna is me.

"The way that Eamon has directed this show, it's like my character is kind of running the show."

Ms Cruse brings a multifaceted perspective to her performance and storytelling.

"I was blessed with the gift of storytelling when I was 12," she shared.

"My great Aunty Iris Clayton was a poet, and she told me I was going to be the next storyteller of the family.

"I didn't understand what that meant—I was actually into politics and on my way to becoming a diplomat."

Her path took a turn when filmmaker Rachel Perkins offered her extra work on 'Redfern Now'.

"From there, that opened my mind up to storytelling," Ms Cruse said.

"I was surrounded by so many strong and deadly artists. I believe that storytelling trumps all."

Working alongside a stellar cast, Ms Cruse admitted to initial nerves.

"The first two weeks I felt a bit of imposter syndrome going on, working with some big-name actors," she said.

"Eamon, being the amazing director he is—he's so willing to hear out suggestions.

"He may be the captain of the ship, but it's a group effort."

Discussing the enduring relevance of August: Osage County, Ms Cruse noted the dynamics of a chaotic family are "quite universal".

"I grew up in a household where we love each other, but we love to choke each other sometimes as well."

She hope the production will resonate with audiences in different ways.

"I just want them to see this play not only as a representation of America and their politics, but I want them to have a laugh," she said.

"That's what mob do—in a world of white-washed chaos around us, we're always the ones strong enough to keep going.

""I hope that the audience can understand what our place in the world is."

August: Osage County, running from 9 November to 15 December, offers audiences the opportunity to experience Letts' American classic through Belvoir's unique staging.

Ms Cruse's performance alongside a cast of renowned actors is expected to bring a memorable intensity to the play's powerful themes.