The Visitors
Moogahlin Performing Arts and Sydney Theatre Company have joined forces to present The Visitors based on the critically acclaimed play by Jane Harrison – a riveting and deeply researched insight into one of the most impactful and painful days in Australia’s history.
By Tierney White
SEVEN CLAN LEADERS gather on a sandstone cliff overlooking the harbour in January in 1788, where they laugh, share a meal, and compare notes. But beyond the friendly banter and hospitality is a significant decision they must make.
As a mysterious fleet of giant nawi (tied-bark canoe) gather in the harbour, they must decide unanimously whether to send these strangers on their way or welcome them.
Directed by celebrated Quandamooka man Wesley Enoch, the theatre work took out Best Mainstage Production and Best Ensemble at the 2023 Sydney Theatre Awards. Now, it’s the Territory’s turn to experience this important piece of theatre, with a special performance at Darwin Entertainment Centre as part of a regional tour.
Actor Zoe Walters hails from the NT, and says theatre is an important vessel for truth-telling.
“I think, especially in this post-referendum world that we’re living in, it’s really important to tell these stories, to keep these stories alive, and to not let the defeat of the referendum stop us from progressing and moving forward,” she says.
“If there is a silver lining, it is that everyone is talking about the future of this country and moving towards reconciliation in this country, and it’s really important to keep that conversation alive. I think this story, this play, absolutely just drives this narrative.”
More than entertainment, theatre, music, film and art on the whole is an important part of our cultural and social fabric, with the ability to bring people together, to share humour, sadness and happiness, and, importantly, to learn.
“In the arts … it isn’t just telling people facts. It’s being entertaining and it’s being clever. It’s making people think, and it’s a lot more complicated than sitting down and listening to a speech or listening to someone tell you the facts – it’s making you think and come to your own conclusions,” Walters says.
“It really immerses the audience in a story that otherwise a white audience doesn’t get to experience, hearing those conversations and being part of the story. I think it really brings people together, theatre, and it moves us together.”
Don’t miss the chance to see this incredible theatre work featuring some of our country’s most talented creatives, and experience a hugely entertaining study of how communities respond to change and the unknown.
The Visitors
WHEN TUE 10 SEP | 7.30-8.45PM
AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE
COST $20-$45
INFO yourcentre.com.au
Thumbnail & Inset: The Visitors by Daniel Boud
