Skip to main content

Review: Waru: Journey of the Small Turtle - QPAC & Bangarra Dance Theatre

Written by Jake Goodall

Join Bangarra Dance Theatre as we embark on a mesmerizing journey that showcases the importance of our environment and the urgent need to preserve it. Waru - Journey of the Small Turtle, is a captivating production that delights children and adults alike, set in the vibrant heart of Brisbane City.

Under the star-illuminated skies of the Torres Strait, a green turtle named Migi returns to the beach where she was born. The nesting season has begun, and the island eagerly anticipates the arrival of a new generation of hatchlings. This touching tale, directed by the visionary Stephen Page, seamlessly weaves together themes of nature, heritage, and the profound impact of environmental conservation.

Page’s direction brings out the best in the performers, creating a story that is both engaging and evocative. The show not only entertains but also educates, instilling a sense of responsibility and appreciation for the environment in the younger generation. By immersing children in the magic of theatre, Waru nurtures their growth and inspires them to leave the world better than they found it.

The stunning set and costume design by Jacob Nash transport the audience to a small bedroom shack at the heart of the island. Nash's creations are so intricately woven into the performance that the set itself becomes a character in the story, enhancing the narrative and drawing the audience deeper into Migi's world. Matt Cox’s emotive lighting design plays a crucial role, guiding the audience’s focus and heightening the emotional impact of each scene. The lighting not only highlights specific areas of the stage but also helps children in the audience follow the story more easily.

Elma Kris shines as the storyteller, Aka Malu. Her engaging presence captivates the young audience, ensuring they are fully immersed in Migi’s journey. Kris's exceptional comedic timing and physicality add depth and charm to the performance, making the story accessible and enjoyable for all ages.

Aba Bero’s portrayal of various animals throughout the show is equally impressive. Bero's realistic and nuanced movements, developed in collaboration with Page, bring the animals to life, adding an extra layer of authenticity and magic to the performance.

Despite being a relatively short piece of children's theatre, Waru - Journey of the Small Turtle leaves a lasting impression on its audience. Waru is not just a show; it’s an invitation to reflect on our relationship with nature and a call to action to protect our precious environment. Join us and be part of this incredible journey.This enchanting production, performed at QPAC until June 29, 2024, is now on a national tour across Australia. To learn more and find out where you can experience this beautiful story, visit Bangarra’s website.

Photos by Daniel Boud

Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Review: Theory of Relativity // Footlights Theatrical

  Written by Jake Goodall If Person A moves along at 3 miles per hour, and Person B trails behind slightly slower at 2 miles per hour, Their paths do not intersect, nonetheless, does B change A's trajectory?  This intriguing question lies at the heart of Footlight Theatricals' latest production, Theory of Relativity, staged at the Pip Theatre, a captivating performance not to be missed in South East Queensland's vibrant theatre scene. Theory of Relativity weaves together a tapestry of seemingly disparate songs, scenes, and monologues, interconnecting to showcase the profound ties that bind humanity. Centered around themes of self-discovery and belonging, the narratives delve into the intricacies of love, identity, and the myriad experiences that shape our existence. From the highs and lows of romantic entanglements to the quirks of allergies, the diverse array of characters invites audiences on an unforgettable journey through the rich tapestry of human connection. Under th...
Post a Comment
Read more

Review: Chicago // Crossroads Live

Get ready to experience All That Jazz in Crossroads Live's production of Chicago at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre! This delectable production is a stunning recreation of the world-renowned Bob Fosse's original show based on the play by Maurine Dallas Watkins.  Every element of this production was cool and calculated, from the sultry costume design to the impressive lighting, the creative team has clearly worked hard to create this fantastic story. Most of this production is a recreation of the Broadway version giving Australia its very own slice of New York, and Crossroads Live's production lives up to the big white way.  Technical elements were stunning, utilisng patterned lights to create the jail cell, visitors room, and murder the lighting design really helped the audience to understand the setting and place in this bare staged production. In terms of set design, it was minimal, all the action happened in front of a massive bandstand (where the band actually was...
1 comment
Read more

Review: Carrie The Musical - Phoenix Ensemble

  Written by Gabriel Besa We’re back in high school but this time we’re attending Chamberlain High. Here, we meet any high school trope you can think of while also singing and dancing about the high school experience. Carrie: the Musical is based off the Stephen King novel that Phoenix Ensemble then brought to their stage. Phoenix Ensemble is full of creatives that have previously done shows like Footloose, Sweeney Todd, and The Spongebob Musical.  Carrie White is a misfit. At school, she's an outcast who's bullied by the popular crowd, and virtually invisible to everyone else. At home, she's at the mercy of her loving but cruelly over-protective mother. But Carrie's just discovered she's got a special power, and if pushed too far, she's not afraid to use it. Set in the present in the small New England town of Chamberlain, Maine, Carrie: The Musical features a book by Lawrence D. Cohen (screenwriter of the classic film), music by Academy Award winner Michael Gor...
Post a Comment
Read more