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: The Cemetery Club - Tugun Theatre

Written by Rett Visser Meet the Cemetery Club! Three longtime friends in their late fifties to early sixties, who are now also united by bereavement. Meeting once a month to visit the cemetery where their deceased husbands lay, their friendship and love for their husbands form the cornerstone of ‘The Cemetery Club’. As in real-life, each woman is dealing with grief differently, as every relationship is different: Doris is struggling with losing the love of her life Abe, despite it being four years since his passing, Lucille is kicking up her heels and spending the inheritance left by the unfaithful Harry, and Ida misses her Murry but realises that she doesn’t want to mourn forever. When Sam, the widower meets the ladies whilst visiting the grave of his deceased wife, a shy attraction to Ida sees cracks in the friendships begin to grow. Efficiently directed by Julie Neumann, the space was well-considered enabling the audience to feel like they were included in the conversation as the la...
1 comment
Read more

Love Labour’s Lost // Footlight Theatrical

  By Jake Goodall “Your wit’s too hot, it speeds too fast, ’twill tire.” Footlight Theatrical’s Love Labour’s Lost sets hearts ablaze with wit and charm in a dazzling Queensland Premiere at the Ron Hurley Theatre in Seven Hills! William Shakespeare’s brilliant and hilarious comedy takes centre stage as the King and his friends swear off women, only to find themselves falling in love with a princess and her ladies.  The ensuing courtship and a year of separation make for an unsatisfying yet tantalizing ending, leaving the audience yearning for more. Could Shakespeare’s elusive sequel, ‘Love’s Labour’s Won,’ hold the key to further adventures? Only time will tell, leaving us at the mercy of the bard’s whims. The production’s set, masterfully designed by Ian Johnson, immerses us in a visually stunning world reminiscent of Mamma Mia. The use of Greek-inspired elements and a towering white wall representing the King’s house are executed with finesse, while the on-stage spa adds an ...
Post a Comment
Read more

Review: Company - Phoenix Ensemble

  Written by Mark Rickell "Company, Sondheim’s sixth Broadway musical, was his breakthrough to serious credibility. It received 14 Tony Award nominations, a record at the time. It’s a minimally plotted collection of songs and stories (more like a revue than a traditional musical) about a single man, his married friends, and several girlfriends. Robert wrestles with relationships and commitment. The show’s title has multiple facets, all important to appreciating its complexity. “Company” is the opposite of solitude and loneliness. It means being surrounded by friends and loved ones. It’s also the tightly knit ensemble of actors performing a show.” - Rick Pender, Everything Sondheim Company at Phoenix Ensemble was exactly as Rick has suggested above. A tight knit, and truly excellent, ensemble of actors performing this show. Director Tammy (Sarah Linde) and assistant director Luke (O’Hagan) are responsible for the set design and the simplicity of form and function they have elected ...
Post a Comment
Read more