The Wagga Wagga Civic Theatre, along with Critical Stages Touring, is proud and excited to be bringing a world premiere to Wagga Wagga!
Chris Bendall's Black Sun/Blood Moon will premiere at the CSU Riverina Playhouse from Friday 20 to Saturday 21 May.
Civic Theatre Manager Carissa Campbell is passionate about getting this show to our local community.
"As a theatre, we get very excited about a world premiere, but this show is particularly close to our hearts," Ms Campbell said.
"We have been heavily involved with this production from its beginning.
"Supporting the creation of new work is so important, particularly as our industry continues to recover from the impacts of the COVID pandemic, but more than that, this show has an incredibly important message about our climate and the power of individuals, and it is set right here in Wagga!"
This not-to-be-missed new Australian production for teens and families is a beautiful adventure story inspired by the 'Fridays for Future' student-led protests that took the country by storm in 2019. Told across two intertwining storylines – one magical, one all too real – two unlikely heroes will follow their hearts to find their voices and save the world.
"After more than two years developing this new production, I'm so excited to finally be able to share it with audiences in Wagga Wagga, where the story is set," said Chris Bendall, the show's writer and director.
"This is a work that I am so passionate about because, as a parent of two young girls, it's an issue close to my heart.
"It's a story that we created because we want to engage in the climate conversation through theatre, through storytelling, and by creating an experience that is hopeful, inspiring, and leaves you with an idea of what you might be able to do as an individual."
In Black Sun/Blood Moon we follow Maddy, a ten-year-old climate champion, and Katie, the underachieving assistant of a climate-denying politician. When Maddy's Dad, Paul, unwittingly inspires Maddy to take part in a school climate strike, their lives are turned upside down irrevocably. Maddy's journey will put her at increasing risk as she takes her message to the powers that be, while Katie will find herself on the back of eagles, dolphins, and polar bears as she attempts to fulfil a fantastical quest from the future.
Combining incredible life-size puppetry designed by Isla Shaw, brought to life using upcycled materials by Erth Visual and Physical Inc, alongside striking video design from Susie Henderson and sound design by Kingsley Reeve (Storm Boy, Pete the Sheep), the production will be a feast for the senses, and an experience the whole family can enjoy together.
"I encourage everyone to support this new work," Ms Campbell said.
"It is filled with hope and magic for the whole family and will leave audiences inspired and hopeful for the change they can be."
Suitable for ages 12+.
Black Sun / Blood Moon
When: Friday 20 May, 10am and 7pm, and Saturday 21 May, 7pm
Where: CSU Riverina Playhouse, Wagga Wagga Civic Theatre
Tickets: Adults $25, Subscribers/Groups $22, Schools $20, +bf
Tickets www.civictheatre.com.au
