APR MAY JUN JUL
2022 SEASON
WE ACKNOWLEDGE THE DARUG PEOPLE, THE TRADITIONAL CUSTODIANS AND STORYTELLERS OF THE LAND WHERE RIVERSIDE IS NOW SITUATED. WE PAY OUR RESPECTS TO ELDERS PAST AND PRESENT AND WE ACKNOWLEDGE THE CULTURE AND HISTORY OF THE ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER PEOPLE.
Chasing Smoke, Photo credit: Rob Blackburn
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HOW TO BOOK ONLINE
TICKET INFORMATION
riversideparramatta.com.au
Ticket pricing referenced in this brochure is the lowest available Adult price. Visit our website for full list of ticket prices.
IN PERSON Riverside Box Office Cnr Church & Market Sts, Parramatta Mon – Fri, 9am – 5pm Sat, 9:30am – 1pm
Eligibility for concessions will vary across events. Information correct at time of printing. Pricing and fees subject to change.
TRANSACTION FEES
BY PHONE 02 8839 3399 Mon – Fri, 9am – 5pm Sat, 9:30am – 1pm
Members – Free Online / Phone / Counter: Live event – $4.60 Cinema – $1.65
Join our e-mailing list to receive updates about upcoming shows, special events, and offers.
COVID SAFE Riverside Theatres is a registered COVID Safe venue with the NSW Government. The health and safety of all Riverside patrons and staff is at the forefront of all our operations. Our policy will be consistently reviewed and will be updated in line with NSW Health guidelines and advice, City of Parramatta WHS policy and procedure. Please check the website prior to attending Riverside Theatres for the most up-to-date information: riversideparramatta.com.au/your-visit/ patronsafetyinformation/ It is important that if you are unwell you stay home, we have updated our ticket conditions and our Box Office team are available to talk through your exchange and refund options. You can contact the Box Office on 02 8839 3399 or email BoxOffice_Riverside@cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au Thank you for keeping our community safe. Cover Image: Become the One, Photo credit: Pier Carthew
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By Phone* 02 8839 3399
In Person* Riverside Box Office Cnr Church & Market Sts, Parramatta
* Mon – Fri 9am – 5pm, Sat 9:30am – 1pm
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WHAT'S ON APR/MAY/JUN/JUL APRIL
SHOW
EVENT TYPE
PAGE
7–9 7 – 10 8 9 10 13 – 14 18 20 – 22 29 – 30 30
Breaking the Castle Alliance Française French Film Festival L-Fresh The Lion and BARKAA The Whitlams – Gaffage and Clink Eishan Ensemble – Project Masnavi Girls with Altitude Leap Mr Snot Bottom Stardust + The Mission Edward the Emu
Theatre Cinema Music Music Music Kids & Family Dance Kids & Family Music Kids & Family
8 9 10 11 11 12 13 14 15 16
MAY
SHOW
EVENT TYPE
PAGE
5–7 5–7 10 13 – 14 13 19 – 21 22 25 27 May – 4 June 29
White Pearl Double Beat – Sara Black Robot Song Chasing Smoke Mozart's Clarinet Become the One Songs of Destiny Zooom Macbeth Martha Marlow
Theatre Dance Kids & Family Circus Music Theatre Music Kids & Family Theatre Music
19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28
JUNE
SHOW
EVENT TYPE
PAGE
1–4 8 – 11 10 – 18 28 16 – 25
Galileo Ulster American FRIENDS! The Musical Parody Thai-Riffic! Dubbo Championship Wrestling
Dance Theatre Musical Theatre Kids & Family Musical Theatre
30 31 32 33 34
JULY
SHOW
EVENT TYPE
PAGE
4–7 15 – 16 28 – 29
Roald Dahl and the Imagination Seekers The Owl and the Pussycat Them
Kids & Family Kids & Family Theatre
36 37 38
COMING SOON
SHOW
EVENT TYPE
PAGE
14 August 19 – 20 August 9 – 24 September 14 – 15 October 3 – 5 November
Beethoven's Eroica Sleeplessness Kinky Boots The Nutcracker Chalkface
Music Theatre Musical Theatre Dance Theatre
40 40 39 41 41
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HELLO AND WELCOME BACK TO RIVERSIDE THEATRES! After a very challenging couple of years, it has been fantastic seeing audiences come back to the theatre and having a fabulous time over the past few months. We’ve had some incredible shows already to start off 2022 and the program just gets better and better as our season progresses! As we again face new natural and political challenges, it’s been clear the joy we all get from sharing the experience of Australia’s talented artists back on stage. Whether they are moving us with compelling dramas, comedy that makes us howl with laughter, or incredible musical performances to sing and dance to, the importance of their art to our communities has never been more apparent. Our April to July program is full of toasty delights to warm your heart and help and keep your winter blues at bay. We’re launching a whole new music program featuring some incredible Australian and contemporary artists as a part of Destination NSW’s Great Southern Nights program. Our kids and education program kicks off in earnest with something for families and students of all ages, including wonderful returning favourites from our friends at Monkey Baa Theatre, Sport for Jove and CDP. Riverside's National Theatre of Parramatta’s hit play White Pearl returns following its successful Brisbane and Sydney CBD seasons and is a sure-fire night of critically acclaimed entertainment. Following rave reviews for their premiere of the extraordinary Grimm in early 2021, Sydney Choreographic Ensemble returns to launch their brand new contemporary ballet work Galileo – exclusive to Riverside Theatres and definitely one not to miss. 6
If the prospect of the approaching winter does start to get you down, we have the perfect antidote with a selection of hilarious musical offerings including Friends! The Musical Parody and new Aussie comedy Dubbo Championship Wrestling , presented in partnership with Sydney’s Hayes Theatre Company. This is just a taste of the winter warmers on the Riverside menu in 2022, with so much more still to come! And to make it tastier, don’t forget to check your Service NSW app for the latest Dine and Discover vouchers on offer which can be redeemed for tickets. We’re excited to be back in action and celebrating all that is wonderful about being together and the joy of live performance again. Our team can’t wait to give you the warmest of welcomes back to our house! Stay safe, and I hope to see you in the Riverside foyer very soon.
Craig McMaster Director | Riverside Theatres
APRIL
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Girls with Altitude, Photo credit: Nic Fenton
Theatre
Photo credit: Helen Fletcher
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS THE STREET THEATRE
BREAKING THE CASTLE WRITTEN AND PERFORMED BY PETER COOK DIRECTED BY CAROLINE STACEY
DATES AND TIMES: Thursday 7 April at 8pm Friday 8 April at 8pm Saturday 9 April at 2.30pm & 8pm
TICKETS: Members $44 Adults $49 A $4.60 transaction fee applies for non-members.
Visceral, fierce, funny and uplifting Breaking The Castle features a gripping performance from creator Peter Cook of a man yearning for connection. Directed by Caroline Stacey with The Street’s awardwinning creative team this is an exquisitely rendered story of hope, belonging, and finding a way to be in this world. Don't miss the chance to meet and speak with the creator, in a Q&A on Saturday 9 April at 4pm. "'For the first time in years, that took me out of the theatre,' was my companion’s verdict. This was an incredibly powerful work that was a privilege to see.” – Stage Whispers ‘’A tour de force performance ……. it never flags during its entire ninety -minute duration” – Arts Review
SCAN IT. BOOK IT.
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Cinema
MORE INFO SCAN HERE
FROM 7–10 APRIL 9
Music Music
L-FRESH THE LION
and
BARKAA 8 APRIL
SCAN IT. BOOK IT.
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AT RIVERSIDE 8 — 10 April THE WHITLAMS 9 APRIL
EISHAN ENSEMBLE 10 APRIL
BARKAA, Photo credit: Luke Currie-Richardson, Eishan Ensemble, Photo credit: Cloe Fournier
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Kids & Family
Photo credit: Ian Sutherland
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS FLYING FRUIT FLY CIRCUS
GIRLS WITH ALTITUDE DATES AND TIMES: Wednesday 13 April at 6.30pm Thursday 14 April at 10.30am & 2pm
TICKETS: Members $39 15&U $42 Adults $49 A $4.60 transaction fee applies for non-members.
SCAN IT. BOOK IT.
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Girls With Altitude combines the cartoons of celebrated Australian artist Judy Horacek (Where is the Green Sheep?), with the worldclass skills of the young artists of the Flying Fruit Fly Circus. From the environment to equality, the young acrobats of the Fruit Flies propose new perspectives on the future using their famously exuberant mix of youthful energy and high-level circus skills. “Family circus at its best!” – Sydney Morning Herald. Suitable for ages 6+
Dance
NEIL GOODING PRODUCTIONS
LEAP
CREATED, DIRECTED AND CHOREOGRAPHED BY AMY CAMPBELL CONCEPT BY NEIL GOODING MUSICAL SUPERVISION BY VICTORIA FALCONER-PRITCHARD
DATES AND TIMES: Friday 22 April at 11:30am & 7.30pm Saturday 23 April at 2pm & 7.30pm Sunday 24 April at 1pm
TICKETS: Tickets from $49 A $4.60 transaction fee applies for non-members.
leap is an explosive Australian premiere dance show created by Amy Campbell (A Chorus Line), one of Australia’s most exciting young creatives. Featuring ten of Australia’s foremost dancers and four extraordinary musicians, leap re-imagines recognisable classical music into a modern soundtrack. A unique blend of dance and story, leap will transport you into the lives of compelling characters at turning points in their lives. Do they stay where they are… or take the leap? Catch leap on its premiere Australian tour before it takes the world by storm!
SCAN IT. BOOK IT.
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Kids & Family
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS
MR SNOT BOTTOM’S HORRIBLE, TERRIBLE, REALLY, REALLY, BAD, BAD SHOW BY MARK TRENWITH
DATES AND TIMES: Wednesday 20 April at 11am & 2pm Thursday 21 April at 11am & 2pm Friday 22 April at 11am & 2pm
TICKETS: Members $27 18&U $21 Adults $30 A $4.60 transaction fee applies for non-members.
He's The Willy Wonka of Weird, The Prince of Putrid, The King of Kids Comedy, it's the disgustingly distasteful Mr Snot bottom! Returning by popular demand, Mr Snot bottom has promised a beautiful, elegant and polite piece of performance about homework, princesses and lullabies... so instead expect a horrendous hour of the most appalling acting, stupidest scripts and just-dumb dialogue in a putrid performance of horrid humour, that will make you absolutely, utterly... adore every minute! A past Perth Fringe Best Children’s Event Nominee, Mr Snot bottom promises a snot-load of grosstastic gags, horrible harmonies and just wrong routines perfect for weird kids 5 and up and their even weirder parents. "All the best elements you’d hope for in kids entertainment" – Kiddo Mag Suitable for ages 5+
SCAN IT. BOOK IT.
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Music
Photo credit: Sarah Walker
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS THE SPACE COMPANY
STARDUST + THE MISSION BY JOEL CARNEGIE AND TOM MOLYNEUX
DATES AND TIMES: Friday 29 April at 7:30pm Saturday 30 April at 2:30pm & 7.30pm
TICKETS: Members $39 Adults $49 A $4.60 transaction fee applies for non-members.
Experience this award-winning double bill and meet two ordinary individuals, whose extraordinary lives still reverberate to this day. Stardust tells the story of bandleader and trumpet player, Col Brain. Told through the eyes of his grandson – award winning ABC presenter & performer, Joel Carnegie – herein lies the discovery of a time capsule of Australian musical life, in a heart-warming quest to uncover what Col wanted us to know about his life by the things he left behind. The Mission follows the journey of “Fighting Gunditjmara” man, Allan McDonald – one of the first Aboriginal soldiers from Victoria to enlist for war. This captivating and rollicking story, told by his great, great nephew, Gunditjmara man Tom Molyneux, tells the truth of Uncle Allan’s struggle; fighting for Country, for love, and for justice.
SCAN IT. BOOK IT.
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Kids Kids&&Family Family
Illustrations by Rod Clement
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS A MONKEY BAA THEATRE COMPANY PRODUCTION
EDWARD THE EMU BASED ON THE PICTURE BOOKS BY SHEENA KNOWLES AND ROD CLEMENT WRITTEN FOR THE STAGE AND DIRECTED BY EVA DI CESARE
DATES AND TIMES: Saturday 30 April at 11am
TICKETS: Members $34 15&U $33 Adults $39 A $4.60 transaction fee applies for non-members.
SCAN IT. BOOK IT.
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The award-winning creative team from Monkey Baa Theatre Company are back with a brand-new take on another much-loved tale, Edward the Emu. More than an adaptation, this is a unique imagining of two beloved picture books, Edward the Emu and Edwina the Emu, combining the plights of both emus in one heartfelt, clever and funny new tale. Suitable for ages 4 – 9
Comedy
A monthly comedy gig featuring three stand-up comedians. Check out our website for new comedians announced each month.
MORE INFO SCAN HERE
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18
MAY
White Pearl, Nicole Milinkovic, Kaori Maeda-Judge, and Deborah An. Photo credit: Rene Vaile
Theatre
Photo credit: Phil Erbacher
RIVERSIDE’S NATIONAL THEATRE OF PARRAMATTA AND SYDNEY THEATRE COMPANY CO-PRODUCTION
WHITE PEARL BY ANCHULI FELICIA KING DIRECTED BY PRISCILLA JACKMAN DATES AND TIMES:
The sold out, award winning hit of 2019 is back!
Thursday 5 May at 7:30pm Friday 6 May at 7:30pm Saturday 7 May at 2:30pm & 7:30pm
A nasty truth goes viral…
TICKETS:
In Singapore, it’s just another day at the office of CleardayTM cosmetics. That is, until they discover that their new TV commercial has been leaked online. The video goes viral for all the wrong reasons. Someone is definitely going to get fired.
Members $58 30&U $51 Adults $64 A $4.60 transaction fee applies for non-members.
Anchuli Felicia King’s play is a ruthlessly entertaining portrait of toxic corporate culture, casual racism and the complexity of pan-Asian relations. As the team at CleardayTM scrambles to contain the fallout, the open-plan, glass-door office proves to be a nest of secrets, lies and resentments. King is an exciting, original young voice and it’s a play rich with twists, dark comedy and brutal honesty. Check the website for updates on Karaoke, DJ sets from SBS Pop Asia’s Andy Trieu and more during the season.
SCAN IT. BOOK IT.
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Dance
Photo credit: Tania Lambert
FORM DANCE PROJECTS AND RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENT DANCE BITES 2022
DOUBLE BEAT – SARA BLACK With an exceptional all female Australian cast and creative team DATES & TIMES: directed by Helpmann Award winner Sara Black, Double Beat explores Thursday 5 May at 8pm Friday 6 May at 12.30pm & 8pm the aural and physical responses the heart and pulse present in reaction to the tempo of our changing natural world. Written for three Saturday 7 May at 8pm women, this contemporary dance trio takes the audience into a deep Digitally Streamed Performance cocoon of mediation and rhythm. Saturday 7 May at 8pm Sara Black has worked as a choreographer, performer, teacher and
TICKETS: 18&U $28 Adults $38 Digital Stream from $15 A $4.60 transaction fee applies for non-members. (No transaction fee for digital stream)
collaborator in Australia and internationally. Whilst making her own work she has worked and collaborated for many companies and independent artists including Chunky Move, The Australian Ballet, Lucy Guerin Inc and Punchdrunk. This will be the world premiere of her new ensemble work Double Beat.
SCAN IT. BOOK IT. This project has been supported through a City of Parramatta Council Creative Economy Grant.
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Kids & Family
Photo credit: Bill Conroy
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS ARENA THEATRE COMPANY
ROBOT SONG DATES & TIMES: Tuesday 10 May at 6.30pm
TICKETS: Members $34 15&U $33 Adults $39 A $4.60 transaction fee applies for non-members.
Based on a true story, Robot Song illustrates the profound, transformative nature of creativity that when combined with unconditional love, becomes an unstoppable force. For Juniper, it opens doors into places she never knew existed allowing her to be defined on her own terms for the first time. This deeply personal story shares an honest, intensely funny and often unconventional window into writer/director Jolyon James’ experience parenting a child on the Autism Spectrum. Full of hope, cutting edge digital technology, animatronics and a beautiful, original musical score, this poignant and compelling production is for any child who has ever felt isolated or pushed to the margins. Suitable for ages 8 – 12
SCAN IT. BOOK IT.
Awards 2019 – Helpmann Award Winner: Best Presentation for Children and Young People Drama Victoria – Best Presentation for Secondary School students Drama Victoria – Best Presentation for Primary School students
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Circus
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS CASUS CIRCUS
CHASING SMOKE
DATES & TIMES: Friday 13 May at 8pm Saturday 14 May at 8pm (Auslan Interpreted)
TICKETS: Members $40 15&U $35 Adults $44 A $4.60 event transaction fee applies for non-members.
SCAN IT. BOOK IT.
Photo credit: Rob Blackburn
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Tumbling through life while juggling an existence where Australia’s First Nations culture, tradition and lands are under threat. Chasing Smoke stomp, dance, flip and weave their message showcasing a people not defeated by adversity, but instead, celebrating survival, modern-day Aboriginality and pride. The world’s oldest living civilisation is the life force that empowers the stories within Chasing Smoke told through the lens of Australia’s only all First Nations circus ensemble. 65,000 years of old-time ways told through now-time circus.
Music
Photo credit: Georges Antoni
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS AUSTRALIAN BRANDENBURG ORCHESTRA
MOZART’S CLARINET DATES AND TIMES: Friday 13 May at 7.00pm
TICKETS: Members from $41 Adults from $49 A $4.60 transaction fee applies for non-members.
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With a pioneering spirit Mozart took a rare instrument and enthusiastically embraced it to write the first major concerto for the basset clarinet. The final instrumental work by the great composer, the Concerto for basset clarinet in A major was completed less than two months before his early death at age 35. The wistful Adagio is familiar to many from its use in numerous wellknown film scores such as Out of Africa and The King’s Speech. Rarely, though, is the concerto performed in concert on basset clarinet, the instrument which Mozart chose in his enduring adaptation of an earlier composition for basset horn. Leading Australian period clarinetist Craig Hill delivers this beguiling concerto in a program that also includes a brooding work by Bach’s eldest son and a Mozart symphonic surprise.
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Theatre
Photo credit: Jodie Hutchinson
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS A LAB KELPIE PRODUCTION
BECOME THE ONE BY ADAM FAWCETT DATES AND TIMES: Thursday 19 May at 8pm Friday 20 May at 8pm Saturday 21 May at 8pm
TICKETS: Members $39 15&U $42 Adults $49 A $4.60 transaction fee applies for non-members.
An award-winning romantic comedy featuring two vibrant, lovable characters at its heart, Become The One explores why a footballer would choose to remain closeted, and why their openly gay partner would choose to accept it. Winner of the 2018 Playtime Award for New Writing, this funny, smart and challenging drama explores the true meaning of bravery and what it might take to do the right thing – as a lover, as a high-profile sportsman, as a human being – to become the one. Suitable for ages 15+
SCAN IT. BOOK IT. This project's development and premiere season was supported by Creative Victoria, a Jacky Winter Gardens Residency and the Victorian Government through the Pride Events and Festivals Fund.
LAB KELPIE An Australian New Writing Theatre Company.
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Music
Photo credit: Grant Leslie
RIVER CITY VOICES PRESENTS
SONGS OF DESTINY WITH RIVER CITY VOICES, WILLOUGHBY SYMPHONY & WILLOUGHBY SYMPHONY CHOIR
DATES & TIMES: Sunday 22 May at 4pm
TICKETS: Members $35 18&U $20 Adults $45 A $4.60 transaction fee applies for non-members.
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Parramatta’s own symphonic choir River City Voices returns to local stages in 2022 with Songs of Destiny, the first concert in its LUSCIOUS series. Revel in the full force of the Willoughby Symphony and enjoy the lush sound of Willoughby Symphony Choir as they join River City Voices in Parramatta for the very first time. With over 100 voices on stage, scale the heights of heaven with Johannes Brahms’ rarely heard Song of Destiny (Schicksalslied), and thrill to the anger of the Gods in his Song of the Fates (Gesang der Parzen). This powerful music paints radically different pictures of the powers that control our destinies. But can we take charge of our own futures? Local Indigenous composers Troy Russell (The Chant*) and Elizabeth Sheppard (Gandangarragal*) invite us to explore the way forward, in new music of courage and hope. Featuring River City Voices, Willoughby Symphony & Willoughby Symphony Choir, conducted by Sarah Penicka-Smith & Peter Ellis.
This concert is supported by a Create NSW Organisational Grant and NSW Government COVID relief funds. Willoughby Symphony & Willoughby Symphony Choir appear courtesy of Willoughby City Council.
*World premieres, supported by JBS&G
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Kids & Family
Photo credit: Matt Byrne
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS
ZOOOM
BY PATCH THEATRE DATES & TIMES:
Wednesday 25 May at 6.30pm
TICKETS: Members $26 15&U $26 Adults $30 A $4.60 transaction fee applies for non-members.
Combining old school whimsy with state of the art technology, ZOOOM is an enchanting story of a child alone in her bedroom, unable to sleep and curious to understand. She begins a transformational journey with light and discovers that the dark is a magical place. Inspired by iconic children’s book Harold and The Purple Crayon, ZOOOM channels the same philosophy; a child who makes sense of their world through art. The show is driven by the power of ‘child logic’, combined with the magic of science. Suitable for ages 3 – 10
SCAN IT. BOOK IT.
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Theatre
Photo credit: Seiya Taguchi
SPORT FOR JOVE PRESENTS
MACBETH BY WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE
DATES AND TIMES:
“O full of scorpions is my mind dear wife...”
Friday 27 May at 7pm Saturday 28 May at 7pm Friday 3 June at 7pm Saturday 4 June at 7pm
Damien Ryan directs a brand new production of Macbeth for Sport for Jove in 2022 offering new insights into this extraordinary play and a thrillingly good cast – a deeply atmospheric, faithful and exciting introduction to the play for young audiences.
TICKETS: All tickets $30 A $4.60 transaction fee applies for non-members.
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Shakespeare’s most immersive and haunting play tells of the murderous ascent to ‘greatness’ of a husband and wife who believe they can control time and destiny. A loving couple, suffering the loss of a child, are surrounded by the children of others – of the King, Macduff, Banquo. To what extent is their first criminal act an act of love in that terrible void, a sacrifice she makes for him and in return, he for her? Sport for Jove’s acclaimed Macbeth is an ecstatic vision of what love and ambition can do to people, of ghosts, shadows, and the terrors of the imagination.
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Music
Photo credit: Riste Andrievski
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS
MARTHA MARLOW DATES AND TIMES: Sunday 29 May at 4pm
TICKETS: Members $39 15&U $42 Adults $49 A $4.60 transaction fee applies for non-members.
Riverside is excited to offer a golden opportunity to discover "one of the year's best kept secrets" (Richard Kingsmill, ABC). Singer/songwriter Martha Marlow has received widespread critical acclaim – most recently shortlisted for the 2022 Australian Music Prize. Martha will perform songs from her ARIA nominated debut album Medicine Man with bass player Jonathan Zwartz, guitarist Ben Hauptmann and a string quartet led by the incredible Veronique Serret as 1st Violin. Martha’s most recent live performance was “to an audience that rewards her with a rapturous adulation and no less than three standing ovations… a voice which promises in time to rank alongside the greats whose influences she wears so well.” – S. Razavi, Sydney Morning Herald
SCAN IT. BOOK IT.
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This is a musical treat not to be missed!
JUNE
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Ulster American, Harriet Gordon-Anderson, Brian Meegan & Jeremy Waters. Photo credit: Richard Farland
Dance
SYDNEY CHOREGRAPHIC ENSEMBLE IN ASSOCIATION WITH RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS
GALILEO
A NEW CONTEMPORARY BALLET BY FRANCESCO VENTRIGLIA DATES AND TIMES: Wednesday 1 June at 8pm Thursday 2 June at 11am & 8pm Friday 3 June at 8pm Saturday 4 June at 2.30pm & 8pm
TICKETS: Members $49 Adults $59 A $4.60 transaction fee applies for non-members.
"We run and stand still. We fall and rise again. We dance alone and with others. Our movement is gloriously human, with every moment personal and made anew. And yet we are at the same time forever subject to the strict laws of physics. It’s a mystery." In his new work Galileo, Francesco Ventriglia takes the great 16th century scientist’s discoveries about motion and puts them to the ravishing music of Baroque giants Vivaldi, Scarlatti, Pergolesi and Monteverdi. Theory becomes flesh and blood as the raw material of speed, freefall, trajectory and inertia is transformed into emotion and startling beauty. Last year Ventriglia’s Sydney Choreographic Ensemble dazzled audiences and critics alike with the world premiere of GRIMM at Riverside Theatres Parramatta. Galileo promises an equally thrilling experience as the exquisite dancers of Sydney Choreographic Ensemble breathe life into an unforgettable meditation about how we walk upon this earth.
SCAN IT. BOOK IT.
SYDNEY CHOREOGRAPHIC ENSEMBLE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR FRANCESCO VENTRIGLIA
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Theatre
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS AN OUTHOUSE THEATRE CO PRODUCTION
ULSTER AMERICAN BY DAVID IRELAND DIRECTOR SHANE ANTHONY DATES AND TIMES: Wednesday 8 June at 8pm Thursday 9 June at 8pm Friday 10 June at 8pm Saturday 11 June at 2.30pm & 8pm
TICKETS: Members $49 Adults $59 A $4.60 transaction fee applies for non-members.
SCAN IT. BOOK IT.
The ‘brazen, savage and brilliantly hilarious’ (Limelight) satire that wowed critics and audiences in 2021 comes to Riverside! Gleefully skewering the powerful and privileged in post- #MeToo showbiz, this ferocious comedy will have you laughing and gasping in equal measure. A talented female playwright, an Oscar-winning actor and an ambitious theatre director meet to discuss a play that promises glory for all. But as lines are crossed and the power of Hollywood looms, the love-in descends into mayhem. The acclaimed Outhouse Theatre Co (The Flick, The Rolling Stone, Gloria) presented the sensational Sydney Premiere at Seymour Centre in 2021 where it played to sold-out houses and five-star reviews. Now this provocative and brutally hilarious production comes crashing into Riverside. Not for the faint of heart. Not to be missed. “Dark, deft & savage.” – Time Out ½ “An electrifying experience for any theatre-goer.” – Limelight
Photo credit: Richard Farland
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Musical Theatre
SK ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS
FRIENDS! THE MUSICAL PARODY DATES AND TIMES: Friday 10 June at 7.30pm Saturday 11 June at 6pm & 8.45pm Sunday 12 June at 2pm & 6pm Tuesday 14 June at 7.30pm Wednesday 15 June at 7.30pm Thursday 16 June at 7.30pm Friday 17 June at 7.30pm Saturday 18 June at 6pm & 8.45pm
TICKETS: Adults from $79.90 A $4.60 transaction fee applies for non-members.
SCAN IT. BOOK IT.
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The hilarious New York and Las Vegas hit Friends! The Musical Parody is pivoting its way to Australia! Join your six favourite friends at your favourite café for a night of unstoppable laughs with the new musical that lovingly lampoons the beloved NBC sitcom! Follow Ross, Rachel, Chandler, Monica, Joey and Phoebe as they navigate love, life, friendship and true unagi, all while reliving your favourite moments from the smash hit TV show. “Friends! The Musical Parody will make you laugh so hard your face will hurt, your eyes will tear, and you’ll be ready to come back and see it over and over again.” – TheatreLife.com “Made our day, our month, and even our year!” – E! News
Kids & Family
Photo credit: Heidrun Lohr
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS A FEM PRESENTS PRODUCTION
THAI-RIFFIC!
BY NATHAN LUFF, ADAPTED FROM OLIVER PHOMMAVANH’S BEST-SELLING NOVEL
DATES AND TIMES:
When all your friends want Pad Thai and all you want is pizza!
Tuesday 28 June at 6:30pm
Albert “Lengy” Lengviriyakul is the son of Thai immigrants who own a restaurant called Thai-riffic! in Western Sydney. He is about to start high school and is desperate to transform his image and just eat some pizza. When his teacher sets a group assignment that focuses on another culture, it becomes apparent that Lengy will not be able to get away from his embarrassing family as easily as he would like.
TICKETS: Members $32 18&U $25 Adults $35 A $4.60 transaction fee applies for non-members.
Through a series of events involving bulk toilet paper, a purple curry and a trip to the Thai New Year Songkran Festival, Lengy discovers his Thai background is pretty awesome after all. This hilarious and heartfelt play about acceptance, family and belonging will have you laughing out loud!
SCAN IT. BOOK IT.
Suitable for ages 7 – 14
The development of Thai-riffic! was supported by Riverside Theatres.
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Musical Theatre
RIVERSIDE THEATRES AND HAYES THEATRE CO PRESENTS
DUBBO CHAMPIONSHIP WRESTLING BOOK & LYRICS BY DANIEL CULLEN, MUSIC BY DANIEL & JAMES CULLEN
DATES AND TIMES: Thursday 16 June at 8pm Friday 17 June at 8pm Saturday 18 June at 2.30pm & 8pm Thursday 23 June at 8pm Friday 24 June at 8pm Saturday 25 June at 2.30pm & 8pm
TICKETS: Members $59 Adults $69 A $4.60 transaction fee applies for non-members.
SCAN IT. BOOK IT.
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There’s not a spare seat in the Dubbo Dome. Ozzy the Aussie Battler flicks his cape and steps into the ring, and the crowd go troppo. This is Dubbo Championship Wrestling, the hilarious Aussie rock musical that will change everything you thought you knew about professional wrestling, regional Australia, and musical theatre itself. Rose, a young woman from Dub-Vegas with wrestling in her blood, has long ago turned her back on the family business and Dubbo’s stifling small-town ways. When circumstance brings her back to her hometown on the eve of Dubbomania, the biggest wrestling tournament of the year, Rose is drawn into a monumental battle over family and identity, featuring capes, choreography, and some of the most colourful characters you’ll ever meet. The violence, the joy, the costumes, the thumbtacks. Will there be blood? We bloody hope so. Dubbo Championship Wrestling, written by rising stars Daniel and James Cullen and directed by smackdown champion Sheridan Harbridge, has been developed through Hayes Creative Development.
JULY
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The Owl and The Pussycat, Photo credit: Nick Morrissey
Kids & Family
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS
ROALD DAHL AND THE IMAGINATION SEEKERS
BROUGHT TO YOU BY GET LOST & FOUND LTD, PUFFIN, AND THE ROALD DAHL STORY COMPANY LTD IN ASSOCIATION WITH INTERACTIVE THEATRE INTERNATIONAL
DATES AND TIMES: Monday 4 July at 1pm Tuesday 5 July at 11am & 1pm Wednesday 6 July at 11am & 1pm Thursday 7 July at 11am & 1pm
TICKETS: Members $26 15&U $26 Adults $30 A $4.60 transaction fee applies for non-members.
SCAN IT. BOOK IT.
All around the world Roald Dahl’s words are disappearing not only from books but children’s minds too! Now only a Secret Organisation known as The Ancient Guild of Taletenders can save the stories and they need your help... Join Terry Tibblestick from the ancient guild of Taletenders and his assistant Brenda Bogg. Taletenders have existed since the beginning of time and their one job is to remember and recall all the words of their storyteller-but maybe Terry hasn't been as diligent as he could have been? Follow Brenda's journey as she reveals her discovery of the missing words, sparking danger that they are being eaten by the dreaded Wurblegobblers. Help her as she tries to convince Terry of the real and present danger the stories are in as she challenges him to see if he’s been protecting and preserving the stories, as she tries to restore the words to the books using imagination, play and a heart full of tenderness. Especially made for ages 6 and up, the show is an immersive and interactive performance, involving games and imaginative play, while exploring Roald Dahl's extraordinary stories, including The BFG and The Twits along the way. Suitable for ages 6+
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Kids & Family
Photo credit: Nick Morrissey
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS LITTLE MATCH PRODUCTIONS
THE OWL AND THE PUSSYCAT BY LISA CHENEY AND KATHRYN MARQUET
DATES AND TIMES: Friday 15 July at 10:30am & 1pm Saturday 16 July at 10:30am (Relaxed Performance) Saturday 16 July at 1pm
TICKETS: Members $26 15&U $26 Adults $30 A $4.60 transaction fee applies for non-members.
SCAN IT. BOOK IT.
In a pea green boat, an owl and a pussycat sail across the sea for a year and a day to fair Bong-tree Bay. Adventure calls, new encounters await and love conquers all in a nostalgic musical journey with an irresistible blend of romance and nonsense. The Owl and the Pussycat is an enchanting and intimate theatrical experience for families. Be swept away in this all-new opera with stunning vocals, interactive theatre and a troupe of musical Puffins. Aboard a magical pea green boat, this charming work explores the universal themes of love, harmony and acceptance. Suitable for ages 4 – 10
This project has been supported by APRA AMCOS Art Music Fund, Creative Sparks, a joint initiative of Brisbane City Council, and the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland, and assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body. Tour supported by arTour an initiative of the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland.
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Theatre
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS LARA WEEK & CRITICAL STAGES TOURING
THEM BY SAMAH SABAWI
DATES AND TIMES: Thursday 28 July at 8pm Friday 29 July at 8pm
TICKETS: Members $34 15&U $33 Adults $39 A $4.60 transaction fee applies for non-members.
SCAN IT. BOOK IT.
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Based on the real life stories of people displaced by conflict, THEM follows one young family as they face the decision whether to flee their war-torn city. Omar, Leila and their young child are counting down the days. Their friends enjoy fantasies of escape and the arrival of Omar’s sister brings a real chance to get out – but at what cost? With unexpected tenderness, laughter, and song, THEM takes audiences into extraordinary circumstances to reveal our shared humanity in the ordinary moments that shape our lives.
Originally produced by Lara Week and Samah Sabawi, in collaboration with La Mama Theatre. THEM is supported by La Trobe University, the Victorian Government through Creative Victoria, the Restart Investment to Sustain and Expand (RISE) Fund – an Australian Government initiative, and the Australia Council for the Arts, the arts funding and advisory body of the Australian Government.
PACKEMIN PRODUCTIONS AND RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENT
BOOK BY
HARVEY FIERSTEIN
MUSIC AND LYRICS BY
CYNDI LAUPER
ORIGINAL BROADWAY PRODUCTION DIRECTED AND CHOREOGRAPHED BY
JERRY MITCHELL
BASED ON THE MIRAMAX MOTION PICTURE KINKY BOOTS
WRITTEN BY GEOFF DEANE & TIM FIRTH LICENSED EXCLUSIVELY BY MUSIC THEATRE INTERNATIONAL (AUSTRALASIA)
9-24 SEPTEMBER 39
Coming Soon
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS AUSTRALIAN HAYDN ENSEMBLE
BEETHOVEN’S EROICA Hear these masterworks as they were first discovered in the early 19th century. Australian Haydn Ensemble presents Masi’s septet version of Beethoven’s Eroica Symphony and Cimador’s adaptation of Mozart’s Symphony No. 40 in a concert of three revolutionary symphonies in chamber form. Just as the mass of a giant star increases as it grows smaller, these intimate renditions of familiar major works will surprise you with their intensity.
SLEEPLESSNESS
BY KAZ THERESE
Part mystery, part documentary, part forensic investigation, Kaz Therese' solo work Sleeplessness maps a remarkable Australian story told across three generations of Western Sydney women, and the unimaginable impact of institutionalisation in Australia. It is the story of Kaz Therese trying to uncover their identity as one of the Forgotten Australians.
DATES AND TIMES:
DATES AND TIMES:
Sunday 14 August at 4pm
Friday 19 August at 8pm Saturday 20 August at 2:30pm & 8pm
TICKETS:
TICKETS:
Members $49 Adults $59 A $4.60 transaction fee applies for non-members.
Members $39 Adults $49 A $4.60 transaction fee applies for non-members.
SCAN IT. BOOK IT.
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RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS
SCAN IT. BOOK IT.
Coming Soon
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS VICTORIAN STATE BALLET
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS A SYDNEY THEATRE COMPANY AND STATE THEATRE COMPANY SOUTH AUSTRALIA PRODUCTION
THE NUTCRACKER CHALKFACE
CHOREOGRAPHED BY MARTIN & MICHELLE SIERRA This delightful and powerful ballet will enchant children and grown-ups alike. It’s a rich display of mesmerising classical ballet performed by stars of the Victorian State Ballet.
BY ANGELA BETZIEN
Don’t miss this rowdy new Australian comedy by Angela Betzien (ABC's Total Control) that peeks into one of society's biggest mysteries: the teacher's staff room. Chalkface is a laugh-a-minute tribute to one of our noblest and most underappreciated professions and an irreverent jab at privatisation, bureaucracy and workplace culture.
DATES AND TIMES:
DATES AND TIMES:
Friday 14 October at 7:30pm Saturday 15 October at 2pm & 7:30pm
Thursday 3 November at 7:30pm Friday 4 November at 7:30pm Saturday 5 November at 2pm & 7:30pm
TICKETS: Members $49 Adults $59 A $4.60 transaction fee applies for non-members.
SCAN IT. BOOK IT.
TICKETS: Members $59 Adults $69 $4.60 transaction fee applies for non-members.
SCAN IT. BOOK IT.
Stephanie Somerville and Catherine McClements. Photo Credit: Rene Vaile
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BEYOND THE SQUARE:
DRAMA WORKSHOPS FOR ADULTS WITH DISABILITY
“I love drama. It’s fun to be here. It’s funny to be cheeky all the time. Have a laugh.” – Anthony, participant Riverside's Beyond the Square drama workshops for adults with disability have been running for over 27 years working with a large number of incredible artists as teachers, facilitators and directors. As we continue to grow and develop opportunities for access and inclusion in 2022, Riverside has teamed up with Studio ARTES - a not for profit organisation that delivers creative programs in visual arts, performing arts, and life skills for adults living with disability - to deliver the Beyond The Square workshop program. The program runs throughout the year, with bookings available for a selection of dates for in-person and online workshops.
Scan here to find out more online about Riverside's Beyond the Square workshops.
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ACCESSIBILITY
Riverside is committed to making our programs and VISION IMPAIRED venues welcoming and accessible for all people. If you If you need seats closer to the front to be able to see require specific seating, audio or accessible parking and enjoy the show, please advise the Box Office staff please contact our Box Office team on 02 8839 3399 when booking your tickets. who will be happy to assist. Our Front of House staff AUDIO DESCRIBED EVENTS can also help you to your seat if required. Patrons with vision impairments can access LEVEL ACCESS some live performances and some cinema events Level access from the street leads into our foyer. through audio description. Audio description is the Level access continues into all venues. Space for live verbal commentary at select moments in the wheelchairs is available in all venues but requires performance and is relayed to audience members booking in advance. via a discreet receiver and ear piece. The description communicates key visual information including action BATHROOMS sequences, facial expressions, costume and scenery. Accessible bathrooms are available at each end of Sensory pre-show tours are offered alongside Audio the foyer. Described shows. Advise the Box Office staff when PARKING booking your tickets. Limited paid parking at Riverside is available for AUSLAN INTERPRETATION patrons with a current disability parking permit only. A number of performances at Riverside are selected Ask the Box Office staff when booking your tickets. to be interpreted with Australian Sign Language HEARING ASSISTANCE (Auslan). Interpreters are discreetly positioned on side If you need seats closer to the front to be able to stage and provide an opportunity for people who are hear please advise the Box Office staff when booking Deaf to access and enjoy these theatre productions. your tickets.
HEARING SYSTEM
RELAXED PERFORMANCES
These are sensory friendly performances where the perceived ‘rules’ of theatre are modified to allow patrons with Autism and other specific needs to enjoy the performance in a welcoming environment.
Riverside has hearing augmentation systems in all three theatres to assist patrons who are hearing impaired. Choose from a single ear earpiece, a neck loop attached to a hearing aid or use your own ear Modifications will differ depending on the show, buds with Riverside’s FM receiver to amplify the sound but can include the house lights being dimmed, from the stage. To access this free service, ask the but not turned all the way down; the understanding Box Office staff when booking your tickets. that patrons may come and go from the theatre as CAPTIONED EVENTS needed; elements of the show that might include Patrons with hearing impairment can access some loud noises or sudden bright lights being toned live performances and cinema sessions through down or removed. captioning. Captioning is available on large screens Visit riversideparramatta.com.au/category/whats-on/ inside the theatre for live performances and as open accessibleliveevents and riversideparramatta.com. captioning for some films. au/category/cinema/accessiblecinemaevents for COMPANION CARD more information and upcoming events. Riverside accepts the NSW Companion Card, allowing a support person free entry. 43
Dine at Parramatta’s foodie destination
Discover more atparramatta.com 44
SUPPORT US The performing arts helps build stronger, more connected communities and can transform lives. Here at Riverside we are proud to be a vibrant cultural hub in our local community, but we always strive to do more. Please consider making a tax deductible donation to help us continue to give education access, eliminate barriers to attendance and strengthen new play development. Our extensive Education Program not only inspires Australia’s up-and-coming talent but also makes the transformative experience of live theatre affordable through our subsidy program.
BEYOND THE SQUARE Beyond the Square is Riverside’s drama program for people with disability. Offering participants creative outlets, personal and social exploration, and skills development it is one of the longest running and largest programs of its kind in Sydney.
RIVERSIDE'S NATIONAL THEATRE OF PARRAMATTA Riverside’s National Theatre of Parramatta is investing in the future, creating opportunities for Western Sydney artists and audiences through mentoring and much more.
PARRAMATTA CULTURAL TRUST For more information on the Parramatta Cultural Trust, to become a Sponsor or to find out other ways you can help Riverside, contact us on 02 8839 3399 or see riversideparramatta.com.au/support. All donations over $2 are tax deductible.
HELP US CONNECT OUR COMMUNITIES IN 2022
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THANKS TO OUR SUPPORTERS Riverside Theatres is a unit of City of Parramatta Council
PARTNER (GOVERNMENT)
RIVERSIDE THEATRES Cnr Church and Market Streets Parramatta NSW 2150 PO Box 3636 Parramatta NSW 2124 ABN 49907174773 Administration 02 8839 3398 Mon – Fri, 9am – 5pm
LEADERSHIP TEAM Director – Craig McMaster Operations Manager – Mike Brew Executive Producer, National Theatre of Parramatta – Joanne Kee Marketing & Communications Team Leader – Sophie Anderson Program Manager – Catherine Swallow
Brochure Design and Artwork leadinghand.com.au Details in this brochure are correct at time of printing. Riverside reserves the right to add, withdraw and substitute artists and vary the programme and prices should the necessity arise. Please note that some performances may contain smoke, strobe lighting, loud noise, coarse language and nudity. Where known we will indicate this in our program, website and in the theatre foyer at the time of the performance. 46
MAJOR PARTNER
Find us nestled on the banks of the scenic Parramatta River in the heart of Eat Street. T: Our closest station is Parramatta Station which is approximately 15 minute walk from Riverside. Trains to Parramatta run every 10 to 15 minutes and bus services run regularly throughout the night. F: Parramatta Wharf is an 8 minute walk to us along the river. For more transport options and to plan your trip see transportnsw.info/ P: There are multiple car parks in short walking distance of Riverside (see map). We are delighted to be able to offer a discount at the Eat Street Erby Place car park after (ask at Box Office or bar for discount voucher) If you hold a current accessible parking permit, we have a small number of onsite parking spaces available to book through our Box Office on 02 8839 3399 Please note: Permanent traffic changes are now in place on and around Church Street (between Market & Macquarie Streets) for the Parramatta Light Rail. Motorists traveling to Riverside should note, these changes may affect the amount of time that it takes for you to drive & park. More details including delicious dining options at riversideparramatta.com.au/your-visit
SORRELL ST
ROSS ST
WILD
ELIZAB
20 metres distance
E AV
NOVOTEL
E
O’CON NE
ETH ST
LL ST
COMMBANK STADIUM
THOM
AS ST
PARKROYAL
MERITON CAR PARK
400 metres distance
ST HUR MAC ART
350 metres distance
SMITH
EAT STREET ERBY PLACE
ST
130 metres distance
JUSTICE PRECINCT CAR PARK 1100 metres distance
ARGY
LE ST PARRAMATTA STATION CAR PARK
1100 metres distance
Riverside Theatres – Cnr Church & Market Sts
Riverside Theatres – Cnr Church & Market Streets
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RIVERSIDEPARRAMATTA.COM.AU Box Office 02 8839 3399 Cnr Church & Market Sts, Parramatta Mon – Fri, 9am – 5pm Sat, 9:30am – 1pm