Choral music festival with 500 primary school students from 30 schools across the Limestone Coast perfoming on stage accompanied by a live orchestra.
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre.
Auditorium
Experience the magic of Elvis Presley like never before with Elvis: The Ultimate Experience, featuring the 2018 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Champion, Ben Thompson. Ben, recognised by Elvis Presley Enterprises and praised by those who knew Elvis best, is one of the few tribute artists capable of authentically portraying every era of Elvis's extraordinary career. From the raw energy of the 1950s to the cinematic hits, through the electrifying NBC '68 Comeback Special, and culminating in a stunning recreation of his 1970s concert years—Ben flawlessly embodies each phase, offering an unparalleled tribute experience. Accompanied on stage by his incredible six-piece band from the UK, Ben delivers a live performance that’s as close as it gets to the real thing. Touring the world and performing in theatres, arenas, and festivals, Ben’s dedication to preserving Elvis's legacy shines through in every show. This performance is designed for every Elvis fan, offering an authentic, heartfelt celebration of one of the greatest entertainers in history. Don’t miss your chance to relive the glory days of Elvis—grab your tickets now!
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre.
Auditorium
Bjorn Again! The Waterloo Anniversary Tour Celebrating 50 Years of ABBA's Triumph Get ready to celebrate the golden jubilee of ABBA's historic Eurovision Song Contest victory in 1974 with 'Waterloo' – a moment that changed music history forever and catapulted ABBA into the hearts and minds of music lovers across the globe! Join Bjorn Again on their Waterloo Anniversary Tour in 2024, as they celebrate this iconic milestone, bringing the timeless magic of ABBA to fans all over the world Get ready to experience the ultimate ABBA tribute like never before. This electrifying tour will have you dancing in the aisles, singing your heart out, and reliving the magic of the one and only ABBA. Australia’s own Bjorn Again is a globally recognised show and has performed in over 120 countries to critical acclaim. Endorsed by the original members of ABBA, they're hailed as the most successful tribute show of all time. Prepare to be transported to the golden era of disco, where platforms were high, and the music was even higher. This is your chance to become a "Dancing Queen" or a "Super Trouper" for a night of pure nostalgia and non-stop fun. Rolling Stone Magazine, USA hails them as "Fabulously flawless," and Time Out Magazine New York raves, "One of the most entertaining live shows in the world today." But this isn't just hype – it's the truth! The stage will come alive with dazzling lights, iconic costumes, and an infectious energy that will have you grooving from the first beat. You won't just hear the music; you'll feel the spirit of ABBA in every note. Sing along to timeless hits like “WATERLOO”, "Mamma Mia," "Take a Chance on Me," “Dancing Queen” and more! So dust off your disco attire, gather your friends, and get ready for a night you'll never forget. It's the perfect opportunity to celebrate 50 years since ABBA’s Eurovision Song Contest triumph and the beloved music of ABBA in the most spectacular way. SEND OUT AN SOS AND RING RING TO BOOK NOW!
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre.
Auditorium
Following a sell out 2022 Australian tour - CIRQUE MOTHER AFRICA Returns to Australia due to UNPRECEDENTED DEMAND in 2024 featuring an all new show. "It’s the Lion king on steroids" - Dominion Post, NZ. “Mother Africa is exuberant, high-energy entertainment” - New York Times "Pure spectacle, colorful costumes, immense physicality, powerfully rhythmic music, song, dance, cirque acts and comedy, something for everybody" - Glam Adelaide The heartbeat of Africa pulsates throughout this jaw-dropping show as the musicians and artists transport audience members to the breath-taking continent of Africa. This 90-minute entertainment extravaganza combines the very best talent from nine African countries including Ethiopia, South Africa, Kenya and Tanzania to provide the wonder, suspense and joy that is Cirque Mother Africa. Seen by more than 2 MILLION people worldwide, Cirque Mother Africa is guaranteed to captivate audiences young and old. Combining the best of contortion, acrobatics, traditional dance, live music, pan spinning, hand balancing and so much more. www.cirquemotherafrica.com “This jubilant 90-minute spectacle delivers one thrill after another.” - Time Out Magazine, New York "Physically compelling" - Sunday Courier Mail "Its Cirque Du Soleil with an abundant African flavor"
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre.
Auditorium
On Screen Production Matthew Bourne’s magical dance production of Edward Scissorhands has carved a place in the hearts of audiences worldwide since its premiere in 2005. Based on the classic Tim Burton movie and featuring the hauntingly beautiful music of Danny Elfman and Terry Davies, Bourne and his New Adventures Company return to this witty, bittersweet story of an incomplete boy left alone in a strange new world. Filmed live in March 2024 at the Wales Millenium Centre, Cardiff, this ’visually arresting and ceaselessly inventive’ (★★★★★ Metro) production is ‘the perfect treat for all the family’ (★★★★★ The Times). In a castle high on a hill lives Edward; a boy created by an eccentric inventor. When his creator dies he is left alone and unfinished with only scissors for hands until a kindly townswoman invites him to live with her suburban family. Can Edward find his place in the well-meaning community which struggles to see past his curious appearance to the innocence and gentleness within? Credits Devised, Directed and Choreographed by: Matthew Bourne New Music and Arrangements by: Terry Davies Based on Themes from the original motion picture score composed by: Danny Elfman Based on the original motion picture arrangement with: 20th Century Studios Original Story and Motion Picture Directed by: Tim Burton Original Screenplay, Story, and Co-Adaptation: Caroline Thompson By Special Arrangement with: Buena Vista Theatricals Theatrical Production Produced by: New Adventures, Martin McCallum and Marc Platt Cast Edward Scissorhands: Liam Mower Kim Boggs: Ashley Shaw Peg Boggs: Kerry Biggin Bill Boggs: Dominic North Joyce Monroe: Nicole Kabera George Monroe: Luke Murphy Jim Upton: Ben Brown Company: Andrew Ashton, Stephanie Billers, Reece Causton, Jade Copas, Anna-Maria de Freitas, Perreira de Jesus Franque, Savannah Ffrench, Glenn Graham, James Lovell, Aristide Lyons, Xholindi Muci, Stephen Murray, Edwin Ray, Holly Saw, Molly Shaw-Downie, Xavier Andriambolanoro Sotiya, Mami Totani, Carrie Willis
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre.
Auditorium
Idja and Country Arts is proud to partner and present Fire Talks, a public program talks for Yuldea performances. Fire Talks is a critical response yarning circle, that uses a simple and effective model to generate audience reflection and connection to art. Adapted by Jacob Boehme from the Perpich Centre of Arts (Canada), it allows audiences to grow, connect, question, and create shared meaning from the artwork they experience and see. Fire Talks for both Whyalla, Port Pirie and Mount Gambier performances of Yuldea are open for public participation, but please registers as spaces are limited. For further information please email Dominic Guerrera (First Nations Creative Producer) at dominic.guerrera@countryarts.org.au)
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre.
Mayoral Reception Area
'Fountain Lakes: A Very Foxy Parody Musical' takes its audiences back to the critically acclaimed world of Kath and Kim. Featuring timeless characters and catchy songs, Fountain Lakes is a raucous comedy musical set in the heart of Melbourne suburbia. Numbers such as “Noice Different, Unusual” and “Emotional Pashrash” tell the stories we’ve all come to know and love. Kim and Brett are fighting, Kath and Kel’s marriage is on the rocks and Sharon is hopelessly in love. This is one very effluent musical and is not to be missed!
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre.
Auditorium
Great Detectives is Going Regional in 2024! The multi-award winning theatrical comedy, Great Detectives, has been touring Australia for the last 10 years and now for the first time, we are thrilled to be bringing the show to regional South Australia! Staring 1950s fan favourite detectives, Candy Matson & Johnny Dollar in two brand new and exciting★★★★★ mysteries (Glam Adelaide)! Be immersed in suspense as we recreate the experience of attending a 1950s radio recording live on stage. This is a night of mystery, comedy & intrigue not to be missed! "Superlative performances" - Glam Adelaide “A fabulous show” The Clothesline “A performance not to be missed” Theatre Now ★★★★ - The Barefoot Review ★★★★ - The Advertiser ★★★★ - SamAboutTown This brand new Australian production features a phenomenal cast of award winning & critically acclaimed Australian actors including Jennifer Barry, Benjamin Maio Mackay, Tate Simpson & Eden Trebilco. Great Detectives was nominated for 7 Broadway World Sydney Theatre Awards
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre.
Auditorium
Australia’s beloved musical treasure, with a career spanning five amazing decades, will be returning to the Regional Australia in 2024! Accompanied by her musicians and production crew, each performance will be a celebration of the extraordinary output of this legendary Australian. From the early days of ‘Fire and Rain’ to the Discotheque album and all the way through to the 2022 release of ‘The Gospel According to Marcia’, each performance will encapsulate Marcia’s extraordinary vocal range and recording career. Since moving to Australia from Boston at just 16 to star in the production of Hair, Marcia has become an integral part of the Australian music and entertainment industry. 22 albums, 2.6 million sales, countless chart topping singles and multi-platinum albums. She continues to reinvent herself and in doing so sets new industry benchmarks. From Jesus Christ Superstar to ‘Queen of Pop’ to ‘Australian Idol’, induction into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2007 and an Order of Australia in 2009, this extraordinary woman has been an inspiration to women and Australians everywhere. Her return to regional centres across Australia is an acknowledgement of the importance of these cities and towns to her journey. These years of touring were so significant in the establishment of her career and her relationship with Australian audiences. Expect two hours plus of memories, musicality and a little madness. The amazing Miss Hines and her touring family are a wonder to behold! Support Act: Suit & Tie
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre.
Auditorium
In the Summer of ‘25 Ross Wilson is hitting the road with his all star band The Peaceniks to celebrate over 50 Years of Hits including all the Daddy Cool and Mondo Rock favourites you’d expect along with the latest offering from an almost 6 decade career, tracks from his latest EP on Bloodlines Records She’s Stuck On Facebook All The Time, and everything in between. From Daddy Cool to Mondo Rock and as a solo artist with no less than 26 ARIA Top 40 hits to his credit as a singer, songwriter and producer, Ross Wilson is one of Australia’s most awarded, respected and well-known artists! From the legendary band Daddy Cool whose number one anthem Eagle Rock and debut album "Daddy Who?" smashed all previous sales records in Australia an astounding 50 years ago in 1971, to the 1977 formation of Mondo Rock, delivering 80’s hits ‘Cool World’, ‘State of The Heart’, ‘Chemistry’, ‘No Time’, and ‘Come Said The Boy’ and into the 21st century as a solo performer, Wilson has never been out of the limelight. His Latest release in 2023 She’s Stuck On Facebook All The Time is a modern day tragicomedy in the blues genre. Twice inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame, Wilson’s live performances are legendary.
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre.
Auditorium
The Sweet Caroline Tour: A Tribute to Neil Diamond is putting all those well-loved classics back on stage and in the spotlight, showcased by a world-class international band and produced especially for the theatre. Take a step back to the glory days of music with this beautiful live tribute concert, featuring impeccable renditions of Sweet Caroline, Cherry Cherry, Red Red Wine, Crunchy Granola Suite, Shilo, Cracklin’ Rosie, You Don’t Bring Me Flowers, Holly Holy, Desiree, Forever In Blue Jeans, Song Sung Blue, Brother Love’s Travelling Salvation Show, I Am… I Said, Girl You’ll Be a Woman Soon and more. BOOK NOW to avoid disappointment!
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre.
Auditorium
Photo: Daniel Boud From the incomparable storytellers of Bangarra Dance Theatre comes a major new work. Frances Rings’ first work as Artistic Director is a ceremonial affirmation of history and heritage. Yuldea awakens the earth and sky worlds to tell the story of the Aṉangu people of the Great Victorian Desert. Yuldea explores the moment traditional life collided with the industrial ambition of a growing nation. In 1917, the two halves of the Transcontinental Railway met at the precious water soak on the edge of the Nullarbor, Yuldi Kapi. Great metal serpents scarred the landscape, draining all water from the sacred soak. Then came the black mist of the atomic testing at Maralinga, forcing the Aṉangu people to leave their desert homelands where they had lived for millennia. Now memories lay scattered, like the Aṉangu people, displaced from their home. Remnants of colonial progress are swallowed by sand. But the Aṉangu endure, determined to keep strong their knowledge systems of land and sky, honouring their eternal bonds of kinship between people and place. Yuldea features original music by Leon Rodgers with featured songs by multi-award-winning duo Electric Fields (Zaachariaha Fielding and Michael Ross). Designers Elizabeth Gadsby (Set), Jennifer Irwin (Costume) and Karen Norris (Lighting) create a desert world on stage.
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre.
Auditorium
Choral music festival with 500 primary school students from 30 schools across the Limestone Coast perfoming on stage accompanied by a live orchestra.
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre.
Auditorium
Experience the magic of Elvis Presley like never before with Elvis: The Ultimate Experience, featuring the 2018 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Champion, Ben Thompson. Ben, recognised by Elvis Presley Enterprises and praised by those who knew Elvis best, is one of the few tribute artists capable of authentically portraying every era of Elvis's extraordinary career. From the raw energy of the 1950s to the cinematic hits, through the electrifying NBC '68 Comeback Special, and culminating in a stunning recreation of his 1970s concert years—Ben flawlessly embodies each phase, offering an unparalleled tribute experience. Accompanied on stage by his incredible six-piece band from the UK, Ben delivers a live performance that’s as close as it gets to the real thing. Touring the world and performing in theatres, arenas, and festivals, Ben’s dedication to preserving Elvis's legacy shines through in every show. This performance is designed for every Elvis fan, offering an authentic, heartfelt celebration of one of the greatest entertainers in history. Don’t miss your chance to relive the glory days of Elvis—grab your tickets now!
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre.
Auditorium
Bjorn Again! The Waterloo Anniversary Tour Celebrating 50 Years of ABBA's Triumph Get ready to celebrate the golden jubilee of ABBA's historic Eurovision Song Contest victory in 1974 with 'Waterloo' – a moment that changed music history forever and catapulted ABBA into the hearts and minds of music lovers across the globe! Join Bjorn Again on their Waterloo Anniversary Tour in 2024, as they celebrate this iconic milestone, bringing the timeless magic of ABBA to fans all over the world Get ready to experience the ultimate ABBA tribute like never before. This electrifying tour will have you dancing in the aisles, singing your heart out, and reliving the magic of the one and only ABBA. Australia’s own Bjorn Again is a globally recognised show and has performed in over 120 countries to critical acclaim. Endorsed by the original members of ABBA, they're hailed as the most successful tribute show of all time. Prepare to be transported to the golden era of disco, where platforms were high, and the music was even higher. This is your chance to become a "Dancing Queen" or a "Super Trouper" for a night of pure nostalgia and non-stop fun. Rolling Stone Magazine, USA hails them as "Fabulously flawless," and Time Out Magazine New York raves, "One of the most entertaining live shows in the world today." But this isn't just hype – it's the truth! The stage will come alive with dazzling lights, iconic costumes, and an infectious energy that will have you grooving from the first beat. You won't just hear the music; you'll feel the spirit of ABBA in every note. Sing along to timeless hits like “WATERLOO”, "Mamma Mia," "Take a Chance on Me," “Dancing Queen” and more! So dust off your disco attire, gather your friends, and get ready for a night you'll never forget. It's the perfect opportunity to celebrate 50 years since ABBA’s Eurovision Song Contest triumph and the beloved music of ABBA in the most spectacular way. SEND OUT AN SOS AND RING RING TO BOOK NOW!
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre.
Auditorium
Following a sell out 2022 Australian tour - CIRQUE MOTHER AFRICA Returns to Australia due to UNPRECEDENTED DEMAND in 2024 featuring an all new show. "It’s the Lion king on steroids" - Dominion Post, NZ. “Mother Africa is exuberant, high-energy entertainment” - New York Times "Pure spectacle, colorful costumes, immense physicality, powerfully rhythmic music, song, dance, cirque acts and comedy, something for everybody" - Glam Adelaide The heartbeat of Africa pulsates throughout this jaw-dropping show as the musicians and artists transport audience members to the breath-taking continent of Africa. This 90-minute entertainment extravaganza combines the very best talent from nine African countries including Ethiopia, South Africa, Kenya and Tanzania to provide the wonder, suspense and joy that is Cirque Mother Africa. Seen by more than 2 MILLION people worldwide, Cirque Mother Africa is guaranteed to captivate audiences young and old. Combining the best of contortion, acrobatics, traditional dance, live music, pan spinning, hand balancing and so much more. www.cirquemotherafrica.com “This jubilant 90-minute spectacle delivers one thrill after another.” - Time Out Magazine, New York "Physically compelling" - Sunday Courier Mail "Its Cirque Du Soleil with an abundant African flavor"
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre.
Auditorium
On Screen Production Matthew Bourne’s magical dance production of Edward Scissorhands has carved a place in the hearts of audiences worldwide since its premiere in 2005. Based on the classic Tim Burton movie and featuring the hauntingly beautiful music of Danny Elfman and Terry Davies, Bourne and his New Adventures Company return to this witty, bittersweet story of an incomplete boy left alone in a strange new world. Filmed live in March 2024 at the Wales Millenium Centre, Cardiff, this ’visually arresting and ceaselessly inventive’ (★★★★★ Metro) production is ‘the perfect treat for all the family’ (★★★★★ The Times). In a castle high on a hill lives Edward; a boy created by an eccentric inventor. When his creator dies he is left alone and unfinished with only scissors for hands until a kindly townswoman invites him to live with her suburban family. Can Edward find his place in the well-meaning community which struggles to see past his curious appearance to the innocence and gentleness within? Credits Devised, Directed and Choreographed by: Matthew Bourne New Music and Arrangements by: Terry Davies Based on Themes from the original motion picture score composed by: Danny Elfman Based on the original motion picture arrangement with: 20th Century Studios Original Story and Motion Picture Directed by: Tim Burton Original Screenplay, Story, and Co-Adaptation: Caroline Thompson By Special Arrangement with: Buena Vista Theatricals Theatrical Production Produced by: New Adventures, Martin McCallum and Marc Platt Cast Edward Scissorhands: Liam Mower Kim Boggs: Ashley Shaw Peg Boggs: Kerry Biggin Bill Boggs: Dominic North Joyce Monroe: Nicole Kabera George Monroe: Luke Murphy Jim Upton: Ben Brown Company: Andrew Ashton, Stephanie Billers, Reece Causton, Jade Copas, Anna-Maria de Freitas, Perreira de Jesus Franque, Savannah Ffrench, Glenn Graham, James Lovell, Aristide Lyons, Xholindi Muci, Stephen Murray, Edwin Ray, Holly Saw, Molly Shaw-Downie, Xavier Andriambolanoro Sotiya, Mami Totani, Carrie Willis
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre.
Auditorium
Idja and Country Arts is proud to partner and present Fire Talks, a public program talks for Yuldea performances. Fire Talks is a critical response yarning circle, that uses a simple and effective model to generate audience reflection and connection to art. Adapted by Jacob Boehme from the Perpich Centre of Arts (Canada), it allows audiences to grow, connect, question, and create shared meaning from the artwork they experience and see. Fire Talks for both Whyalla, Port Pirie and Mount Gambier performances of Yuldea are open for public participation, but please registers as spaces are limited. For further information please email Dominic Guerrera (First Nations Creative Producer) at dominic.guerrera@countryarts.org.au)
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre.
Mayoral Reception Area
'Fountain Lakes: A Very Foxy Parody Musical' takes its audiences back to the critically acclaimed world of Kath and Kim. Featuring timeless characters and catchy songs, Fountain Lakes is a raucous comedy musical set in the heart of Melbourne suburbia. Numbers such as “Noice Different, Unusual” and “Emotional Pashrash” tell the stories we’ve all come to know and love. Kim and Brett are fighting, Kath and Kel’s marriage is on the rocks and Sharon is hopelessly in love. This is one very effluent musical and is not to be missed!
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre.
Auditorium
Great Detectives is Going Regional in 2024! The multi-award winning theatrical comedy, Great Detectives, has been touring Australia for the last 10 years and now for the first time, we are thrilled to be bringing the show to regional South Australia! Staring 1950s fan favourite detectives, Candy Matson & Johnny Dollar in two brand new and exciting★★★★★ mysteries (Glam Adelaide)! Be immersed in suspense as we recreate the experience of attending a 1950s radio recording live on stage. This is a night of mystery, comedy & intrigue not to be missed! "Superlative performances" - Glam Adelaide “A fabulous show” The Clothesline “A performance not to be missed” Theatre Now ★★★★ - The Barefoot Review ★★★★ - The Advertiser ★★★★ - SamAboutTown This brand new Australian production features a phenomenal cast of award winning & critically acclaimed Australian actors including Jennifer Barry, Benjamin Maio Mackay, Tate Simpson & Eden Trebilco. Great Detectives was nominated for 7 Broadway World Sydney Theatre Awards
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre.
Auditorium
Australia’s beloved musical treasure, with a career spanning five amazing decades, will be returning to the Regional Australia in 2024! Accompanied by her musicians and production crew, each performance will be a celebration of the extraordinary output of this legendary Australian. From the early days of ‘Fire and Rain’ to the Discotheque album and all the way through to the 2022 release of ‘The Gospel According to Marcia’, each performance will encapsulate Marcia’s extraordinary vocal range and recording career. Since moving to Australia from Boston at just 16 to star in the production of Hair, Marcia has become an integral part of the Australian music and entertainment industry. 22 albums, 2.6 million sales, countless chart topping singles and multi-platinum albums. She continues to reinvent herself and in doing so sets new industry benchmarks. From Jesus Christ Superstar to ‘Queen of Pop’ to ‘Australian Idol’, induction into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2007 and an Order of Australia in 2009, this extraordinary woman has been an inspiration to women and Australians everywhere. Her return to regional centres across Australia is an acknowledgement of the importance of these cities and towns to her journey. These years of touring were so significant in the establishment of her career and her relationship with Australian audiences. Expect two hours plus of memories, musicality and a little madness. The amazing Miss Hines and her touring family are a wonder to behold! Support Act: Suit & Tie
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre.
Auditorium
In the Summer of ‘25 Ross Wilson is hitting the road with his all star band The Peaceniks to celebrate over 50 Years of Hits including all the Daddy Cool and Mondo Rock favourites you’d expect along with the latest offering from an almost 6 decade career, tracks from his latest EP on Bloodlines Records She’s Stuck On Facebook All The Time, and everything in between. From Daddy Cool to Mondo Rock and as a solo artist with no less than 26 ARIA Top 40 hits to his credit as a singer, songwriter and producer, Ross Wilson is one of Australia’s most awarded, respected and well-known artists! From the legendary band Daddy Cool whose number one anthem Eagle Rock and debut album "Daddy Who?" smashed all previous sales records in Australia an astounding 50 years ago in 1971, to the 1977 formation of Mondo Rock, delivering 80’s hits ‘Cool World’, ‘State of The Heart’, ‘Chemistry’, ‘No Time’, and ‘Come Said The Boy’ and into the 21st century as a solo performer, Wilson has never been out of the limelight. His Latest release in 2023 She’s Stuck On Facebook All The Time is a modern day tragicomedy in the blues genre. Twice inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame, Wilson’s live performances are legendary.
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre.
Auditorium
The Sweet Caroline Tour: A Tribute to Neil Diamond is putting all those well-loved classics back on stage and in the spotlight, showcased by a world-class international band and produced especially for the theatre. Take a step back to the glory days of music with this beautiful live tribute concert, featuring impeccable renditions of Sweet Caroline, Cherry Cherry, Red Red Wine, Crunchy Granola Suite, Shilo, Cracklin’ Rosie, You Don’t Bring Me Flowers, Holly Holy, Desiree, Forever In Blue Jeans, Song Sung Blue, Brother Love’s Travelling Salvation Show, I Am… I Said, Girl You’ll Be a Woman Soon and more. BOOK NOW to avoid disappointment!
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre.
Auditorium
Photo: Daniel Boud From the incomparable storytellers of Bangarra Dance Theatre comes a major new work. Frances Rings’ first work as Artistic Director is a ceremonial affirmation of history and heritage. Yuldea awakens the earth and sky worlds to tell the story of the Aṉangu people of the Great Victorian Desert. Yuldea explores the moment traditional life collided with the industrial ambition of a growing nation. In 1917, the two halves of the Transcontinental Railway met at the precious water soak on the edge of the Nullarbor, Yuldi Kapi. Great metal serpents scarred the landscape, draining all water from the sacred soak. Then came the black mist of the atomic testing at Maralinga, forcing the Aṉangu people to leave their desert homelands where they had lived for millennia. Now memories lay scattered, like the Aṉangu people, displaced from their home. Remnants of colonial progress are swallowed by sand. But the Aṉangu endure, determined to keep strong their knowledge systems of land and sky, honouring their eternal bonds of kinship between people and place. Yuldea features original music by Leon Rodgers with featured songs by multi-award-winning duo Electric Fields (Zaachariaha Fielding and Michael Ross). Designers Elizabeth Gadsby (Set), Jennifer Irwin (Costume) and Karen Norris (Lighting) create a desert world on stage.
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre.
Auditorium