SECRETS Revealed on Stage
ONE OF SLIDE Youth Dance Theatre’s most powerful and heartfelt productions, SECRETS, is returning to the stage for NT Youth Week to portray the devastating impact of drug addiction.
By Tamara Howie
The story follows 17-year-old Jake as his life becomes splintered and scarred by his ice addition.
It was first developed in 2013 after the company’s discussions with Territory youth about their concerns of increased use and abuse of drugs among their peers. While the youth involved in 2013 are now young adults, director Joanna Noonan says the same concerns remain for young people in 2021.
“Drug taking is a real problem, it hasn’t gone away, and it is frightening,” she says.
“The cast are united in bringing the issue to the stage. They use their unique platform to raise awareness in the hope that they can save lives. The more we can discuss things like mental health, taking away the stigma, the safer our communities and children will be.”
The show has made an ongoing and lasting impact, with previous productions in 2013, 2016 and 2018. Noonan says each new cast brings unique skills and perspectives.
“The evolution is informed because of the cast’s collective desire to retell the powerful story in ways that remain true to the original intentions, thematically and choreographically. Each iteration is offered a new energy as the cast work hard with their unique skill base and genuine desire to connect with their peers to share Jake’s story,” she says.
The 2021 production is sure to be a powerful reminder of not only the damages of drugs, but also of the talent and dedication of young Territory performers.
SECRETS Preview for NTYW
TUE 13 APR, 10AM | FREE, 13-16
WED 14 APR, 10AM | FREE, 16-26
SECRETS: SLIDE Youth Dance Theatre
WHEN TUE 20 – THU 22 APR, 10AM | THU 22 APR, 7PM
AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE
COST $25 | $15 STUDENT, CHILD, MATINEE
INFO yourcentre.com.au
