I am currently working on a one woman show. This is an Australian story about the power of girls and women; it includes circus, movement/dance, storytelling, projections, live music and immersive sound and lighting. I plan to produce it semi-outdoors in a circus tent or similar. It has a vintage aesthetic and an intimate, magical realism style that crosses time periods.
The story is based loosely on some of my own life events, including my ethnic Chinese (Cantonese) background, life-changing open heart surgery at 2 years old, formative years in remote communities of the Northern Territory, remote area school-of-the-air experience, and arts career. It is intended to be at once mysterious, powerful and empowering for all women and girls, with a sprinkling of clown that adds a dream-like circus sparkle to it’s theatrical heart.
The audience is intended to be women and girls who live in rural, regional and remote areas of Australia, however, it is also written for all women and girls throughout the world. I want the show to embolden women and girls to be brave, take care of themselves, say NO when they want to and follow their inner guidance. The imagery and portrayal of the Australian landscape, within the context of my own personal narrative, will also appeal to international audiences of any gender.
Staged simply, it will use basic lighting, handheld/bluetooth sound devices, suitcase sized props, some masks and a set comprised of a curtain/projection screen, a chair and folding table. The set and tech fits inside a ute for efficient transport. It is written to be low tech and tourable – ideally I plan to take it to regional and remote QLD/Australia and eventually overseas to Europe and Great Britain.
It is currently in creative development (second draft) and I am in the process of applying for funds to employ a dramaturg and/or director to further develop the script and characterization.
Image credit: www.EKDuncan.com
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