Railway Wonderland, 2012 – photo by Grant MacIntyre
NORPA (Northern Rivers Performing Arts) welcomes you into a world of theatre. We create and produce our own work as well as present dynamic theatre from some of Australia’s most exciting performing arts companies. Our home is the Lismore City Hall.
NORPA
2015 ABOUT norpa
2015 season
Beyond
5
CIRCA 27 & 28 March
Cabaret Diva
7
CHRISTA HUGHES & BETHAN ELLSMORE 8 & 9 May
Australia Day
Let’s talk about NORPA
25
Generator
27
NORPA Community
31
Embrace NORPA
33
Our Partners
35
9
BECOME A SUBSCRIBER
11
Why subscribe
23
Win prizes
40
Subscription form
41
HIT PRODUCTIONS 23 & 24 June
The 26-Storey Treehouse A CDP PRODUCTION 17 July
Country Song
13
QUEENSLAND THEATRE COMPANY 13 – 15 August
Hamlet
15
BELL SHAKESPEARE 29 & 31 August
Cockfight
17
THE FARM & NORPA 17 – 19 September
Railway Wonderland
19
NORPA 22 October – 7 November
Kinship BANGARRA DANCE THEATRE 17 & 18 November
21
USEFUL INFORMATION Your visit
37
Ticket information
39
Contact us
44
Photo | Kate Holmes
from julian
Welcome to 2015
Theatre is highly collaborative and is shared in the moment. We are witnesses to it in real time. It’s not online and you can’t catch it later on-demand. Theatre is a shared experience and when it resonates, we stumble into the night a little changed, a little more alive. Illuminated. I hope 2015 at NORPA will be full of those moments for you. Some of the most powerful and joyous responses we get are to our homegrown works – two of which are featured in this year’s season. We’re thrilled to be putting Railway Wonderland back on the tracks at Lismore train station (for an extended run!) after so many missed out on the experience when it sold out in 2012. A wonderful combination of theatre, dance, visuals and music (a choir no less), Railway Wonderland is a spectacular theatre event created in this community and inspired by our local stories. We also bring you another NORPA Generator work, Cockfight, co-produced with our friends The Farm in a comical, combative and tender performance that pushes the limits of physical theatre. I’m also excited for the national companies that will travel to perform here because they will experience the
joy, energy, passion and spirit of this community. Highlights include contemporary circus superstars Circa with their new show Beyond and Bangarra Dance Theatre finally returns to Bundjalung country with Stephen Page’s breathtaking work Kinship. NORPA audiences will be the first to experience a new Indigenous work, Country Song, after its Brisbane premiere. Created by Wesley Enoch and the Queensland Theatre Company, Country Song celebrates the life and music of Jimmy Little and many of the ‘unsung’ Aboriginal entertainers in our shared history. This year it is a real privilege to be developing our own theatre work called Three Brothers with our local Bundjalung community. I believe it is in theatre that some of the most exciting and positive exchanges are being made between black and white Australia. For more exciting news about our homegrown projects have a look at the Generator section of this brochure (pg 27). We welcome you to be in the moment with us and celebrate the power of theatre. Julian Louis Artistic Director
Photo | Dylan Evans
norpa 2015 season NORPA and TNR present
Beyond CIRCA Created by Yaron Lifschitz with the Circa Ensemble
“Audiences have come to expect the earth from Circa... Beyond gives them the moon as well.” the stage uk
Seven artists gather together to express their inner selves and to connect with each other and the audience. Over the course of Beyond we meet the artists, marvel at their skills, enter their personalities and emerge into a Beyond is warm, surreal and unexpectedly strangely beautiful and curiously tender world, moving. Blending dynamic circus acts like as performers explore their animal instincts and trapeze and Chinese pole with multiple rabbit human foibles. heads, Rubik’s Cubes and blindfolds, set to a bewitching mix of show tunes, ballads and Circa finds new emotional landscapes inside the spectacle. Beyond is dangerous and skillful, but electronica, Beyond delights and enchants. above all it is circus of the heart. There is a line between human and animal, between madness and sanity, between logic and dream. Contemporary circus stars Circa invite you to step over this line… and go Beyond.
Friday 27 & Saturday 28 March, 7.30pm Diner & bar from 6pm — Lismore City Hall — 70 minutes (no interval) creative team
ticket prices
SPECIAL BONUS
patron advice
Performed by Rowan Heydon-White, Bridie Hooper, Rudi Mineur, Kathryn O’Keeffe, Paul O’Keeffe, Skip WalkerMilne & Billie Wilson-Coffey Director Yaron Lifschitz Technical Director & Lighting Designer Jason Organ Costume Design Libby McDonnell
A $49 S $44 C $42 U/18 $22
Join the cast of Circa for a Q&A session after the performance on Friday 27 March
Suitable for all ages
Subscriber price A $40 S $36 C $34 U/18 $18
performance partner
5
Photo of Christa Hughes by Arianna Bosi
norpa 2015 season NORPA presents
Cabaret Diva featuring christa hughes
“She’s exuberant, she’s inventive, she’s exciting and, above all, Christa kind of gives vulgarity a good name.” barry humphries
christa hughes in
Beer Drinking Woman With the mesmerising voice of a mermaid wooing ships onto the rocks and a dash of 1920s bravado, singing sensation Christa Hughes (Machine Gun Fellatio, Circus Oz) returns to the Northern Rivers. As a ‘lush’ she takes us on an alcohol-drenched journey from the tingling buzz of that first elegant sip all the way through to the hair-of-the-dog hangover blues.
Accompanied by pianist Leonie Cohen, they perform some of Christa’s own liquor-laced compositions as well as songs by Tom Waits, Memphis Slim, Cold Chisel, Dinah Washington and more. Come on in, wet your whistle and sink another with the Dive Bar Diva. Christa will perform for 60 minutes.
Supported by BETHAN ELLSMORE in
Queen of the Night Under the cover of darkness, anything is possible. Bethan Ellsmore is a curious urban fantasist who insists that you can sing Mozart, The Strokes, Weill and Sia in the same soiree. Straying from the safety of the babes of Babushka Cabaret,
Bethan wanders the heady streets of her urban existence, dodging dangers and sharing joyous moments through arias, music theatre, pop songs and her own original music. Bethan will perform for 30 minutes (approx).
Friday 8 & Saturday 9 May, 7.30pm Diner & bar from 6pm — Lismore City Hall — 110 minutes (including interval) creative teams
ticket prices
Singer & performer Christa Hughes Piano Leonie Cohen Writer Christa Hughes
A $41 S $37 C $35 U/18 $22
Created and performed by Bethan Ellsmore Musically directed by Alicia Cush Directed by Alison St Ledger Co-Produced with Little Black Dress Creatives
SPECIAL BONUS Frock up! Best fancy dressed patron competition at the bar after the show on Friday 8 May
Subscriber price A $33 S $30 C $28 U/18 $18
7
patron advice Recommended for ages 18+ Coarse language, adult themes, outrageous behaviour
Photo | Dylan Evans
norpa 2015 season NORPA and TNR present a production by Christine Harris and HIT Productions
Australia Day HIT PRODUCTIONS written and directed by jonathan biggins
“If you want social satire and huge laughs at the expense of well, just about everyone in our sun-drenched country... Australia Day is just the ticket.” herald sun
The country town of Coriole is getting ready for Australia Day – a time to crack open a frothy, throw a snag on the barbie and celebrate what it means to be a true blue Aussie. The Australia Day committee is gearing up to put on the town’s biggest party – but they have a few issues of their own to sort out first. With everyone from the Greens to the local mayor to the CWA wanting a piece of the party pie, it’s proving hard yakka to work out what an Aussie
celebration should look like. Nothing is sacred as the national identity is put through the ringer in this thoroughly modern ripper of a comedy! Will the day be fair dinkum after all? Or are there too many roos loose in the community hall? Written and directed by acclaimed playwright and Sydney Theatre Company satirist Jonathan Biggins (The Wharf Revue), Australia Day is a brand new touring production for 2015. Originally commissioned and first produced at the Playhouse, Arts Centre Melbourne by Sydney Theatre Company and Melbourne Theatre Company
Tuesday 23 & Wednesday 24 June, 7.30pm Diner & bar from 6pm — Lismore City Hall — 2 hours 20 minutes (including interval) creative team
ticket prices
SPECIAL BONUS
patron advice
Cast Brian Harrigan, Robert Wilson, Helen McInnes, Wally Stewart, Marie Bucknell & Chester Lee Set Designer Shaun Gurton Lighting Designer Jason Bovaird Costume Designer Adrienne Chisholm Sound Designer Nick Reich
A $49 S $44 C $42 U/18 $22
Join cast members for a Q&A session after the performance on Tuesday 23 June
Recommended for ages 15+ Contains strong language and adult themes.
Subscriber price A $40 S $36 C $34 U/18 $18
performance partner
9
norpa 2015 season NORPA and The Macadamia Castle present
The 26-Storey Treehouse A CDP Production a play by richard tulloch adapted from the book by andy griffiths & terry denton
“ WOW... goes to the edge of the ridiculous to get a laugh.” sydney morning herald
Andy and Terry had such a ball with their crashlanding entry into the world of theatre with The 13-Storey Treehouse last year, they’re back for more. 13 storeys more in fact. And you’re invited!! You know what 13 more storeys means?! More inventions – like the 78 flavour ice-cream dispensing robot and the brain bamboozling Maze of Doom (not to mention the self-inflating underpants) and more things to go wrong. Will Andy and Terry push their friend Jill to her absolute limits? And who is this shady Hector
Houtkop with a really bad pirate accent? And what about all those pirates? Adapted by award-winning playwright and author Richard Tulloch (The Book of Everything, Bananas in Pyjamas) and under the creative guidance of NORPA’s very own Artistic Director Julian Louis, The 26-Storey Treehouse is brought to you by the same cracker team that delivered the smash-hit stage version of The 13-Storey Treehouse. So what are you waiting for? You’ll laugh your head off!
Friday 17 July, 6pm Diner & bar from 5pm — Lismore City Hall — 60 minutes (no interval)
creative teams
ticket prices
patron advice
Director Liesel Badorrek Artistic Director Julian Louis Set & Costume Designer Mark Thompson Lighting Designer Nicholas Higgins Sound Designer Ross Johnston Choreographer Katie Kermond
A $41 S $37 C $35 U/18 $22
Recommended for ages 6+ and their adults
performance partner
Subscriber price A $33 S $30 C $28 U/18 $18
The 26-Storey Treehouse is part of NORPA’s 2015 Theatre for Schools program
11
Photo | Aaron Tait
norpa 2015 season NORPA presents a Queensland Theatre Company and Queensland Performing Arts Centre production
Country Song queensland theatre company written by reg cribb original concept by michael tuahine
A celebration of the life and music of Jimmy Little and his contemporaries As the Sydney Opera House throws open its doors in 1973 with an extravagant gala concert, another Australian icon is having a backstage crisis. Indigenous singing superstar Jimmy Little is about to croon for Queen Elizabeth II, but the words won’t come. Once a smiling, cheeky child of vaudevillians, now a poster boy for Aboriginal performers, Jimmy wrestles with whether to take to the Opera House stage or quietly fade away. Travel with Jimmy Little down the long road to his past as his story weaves into those of his contemporaries.
Country Song is inspired by the true-life experiences of Jimmy Little and Aboriginal entertainers Wilma Reading, Auriel Andrew, Bobby McLeod, Vic Simms, Roger Knox and Lionel Rose. Filled with Jimmy’s best-known tunes, Country Song is a beautiful, musical, witty and warming journey that celebrates the healing power of music. Don’t miss this exciting new work coming direct to NORPA from its premiere in Brisbane.
Thursday 13 & Friday 14 August, 7.30pm Saturday 15 August, 1.30pm & 7.30pm Diner & bar from 6pm — Lismore City Hall — 2 hours 40 minutes (including interval) creative team
ticket prices
SPECIAL BONUS
patron advice
Writer Reg Cribb Cast includes Michael Tuahine Director Wesley Enoch Set Designer Josh McIntosh A/V Design Optikal Bloc
A $49 S $44 C $42 U/18 $22
Come and celebrate local Bundjalung culture at the opening night performance on Thursday 13 August
Recommended for ages 13+
Subscriber price A $40 S $36 C $34 U/18 $18
Pre-show Welcome to Country, local musicians and diner from 6pm Post-show Join Wesley Enoch and Michael Tuahine for a Q&A session
13
Photo | Pierre Toussaint
norpa 2015 season NORPA and Southern Cross University present
Hamlet bell shakespeare by william shakespeare director damien ryan
“There’s a reason the name Bell Shakespeare has become synomymous with quality theatre .” artshub
Dark acts result in darker consequences. And there is little that’s darker and more complicated than the act of revenge. A family torn apart by murder, a son burdened with the truth and the task of avenging his father, and a country on the brink of war. Anguish, passion and desperation collide in this tragic telling of Hamlet, the Prince of Denmark who is tormented by the impossibility of his dilemma, and who remains one of theatre’s most fascinating characters.
Damien Ryan, returning to Bell Shakespeare following the critically acclaimed Henry V in 2014, will deliver a new production of Hamlet, infused with the passion, contemplation and emotion that Shakespeare’s compelling poetry cries out for. Josh McConville (Griffin Theatre Company’s The Boys and Sydney Theatre Company’s Mojo) and Matilda Ridgway (Sport For Jove’s A Doll’s House) will delve into the depths of the complexity, violence, philosophical reflection, madness and maddening seduction of Hamlet.
Saturday 29 August, 7.30pm Monday 31 August, 11am & 7.30pm Diner & bar from 6pm — Lismore City Hall — 2 hours 40 minutes (including interval) cast
ticket prices
SPECIAL BONUS
patron advice
Includes Josh McConville Matilda Ridgway
A $49 S $44 C $42 U/18 $22
Join the cast of Hamlet for a Q&A session after the performance on Saturday 29 August
Recommended for ages 15+ years.
Subscriber price A $40 S $36 C $34 U/18 $18
performance partner
Hamlet is part of NORPA’s 2015 Theatre for Schools program
15
Photo | Kate Holmes
norpa 2015 season NORPA presents
Cockfight The Farm co-produced by performing lines & norpa
“Like an episode of The Office meets a cage fight, Australian style.” julian louis, artistic director
Two blokes in an office. One older, one younger, each body pushed to its limits in this hilarious and ultimately tender piece of physical theatre. These men challenge each other in a series of comical one-upmanships that build to a moment of impact where everything is suspended, the flash of bared teeth, the mutual reliance on the fight, the desperation and loneliness of success. Cockfight is a poetic look at the power play that occurs between men and the frailty of the body. It is evocative of age and passing time and questions our culture’s desperate desire for achievement. Without each other these two performers have nothing left to fight for.
At the heart of Cockfight is a very real relationship between Josh and Gav who have been working together for many years. Their humour, trust and understanding allows them to take extreme physical risks that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Bringing together the inventive theatricality of physical theatre company THE FARM with NORPA’s Artistic Director Julian Louis, Cockfight will provoke and excite in equal measure. Come and see what happens when these two men give it all they’ve got.
Thursday 17 — Saturday 19 September, 7.30pm Diner & bar from 6pm — Lismore City Hall — 70 minutes (no interval)
creative team
ticket prices
SPECIAL BONUS
patron advice
Performers Josh Thomson and Gavin Webber Sound design Luke Smiles LX design Mark Howett Outside eyes Julian Louis and Kate Harman Set Design by Josh Thomson in consultation with Joey Ruigrok
A $49 S $44 C $42 U/18 $22
Join THE FARM and NORPA Artistic Director Julian Louis for a Q&A session after the performance on Thursday 17 Sept
Recommended for ages 15+
Subscriber price A $40 S $36 C $34 U/18 $18
Cockfight was developed by members of THE FARM with guest artist Julian Louis. At THE FARM work is made in collaboration; everyone involved brings something to the creative process that shapes the piece. All animals are equal.
17
Photo | Grant MacIntyre
norpa 2015 season NORPA presents
Railway Wonderland norpa directed & devised by julian louis with the company
“It is difficult to convey the show’s cleverness in a few words... Suffice to say that Railway Wonderland is a delight from start to finish” abc north coast
Take your seat under the stars as NORPA’s Railway Wonderland brings Lismore train station back to life. Live music and performance will transport us on a magical ride across time from the 1940s to the present day. Four strangers take shelter in the fluorescent glare of a railway waiting room. They are waiting for a bus because the trains don’t run any more. They have different reasons for wanting to leave town – love, fame, to run away or to go home one more time. The distant
sound of a train whistle announces the arrival of a mysterious old woman who has come to catch the train. Is she an apparition, an angel, mad - or all three? The strangers are swept up into the old woman’s tale of her arrival as a young girl in a strange land and her search for belonging in a country town. Immerse yourself in a dreamy wonderland of strange encounters, wild stories, comedy, romance and song.
Thursday 22 October — Saturday 7 November, 8pm Lismore Train Station — 65 minutes (no interval)
creative team Conceived and directed by Julian Louis Devisor/Writer Janis Balodis Devisor/Performers Jo Turner, Johnny Nasser, Neridah Waters, Philip Blackman, Katia Molino Composer/Musical Director Michael Askill Choreographer Emma Saunders
Costumes William Kutana Lighting Designer Richard Morrod Video projections Salvador Castro Musician Shenzo Gregory Choir Master Nicholas Routley Featuring the choir Vox Caldera
19
SPECIAL BONUS
ticket prices
Outdoor trattoria, bar and live music at the train station from 6pm
A $49 S $44 C $42 U/18 $22
Experience the action unfold on the station platform from the undercover seating constructed across the (no longer in use!) railway tracks
Subscriber price A $40 S $36 C $34 U/18 $18
patron advice Recommended for ages 6+
Photo | Greg Barrett
norpa 2015 season NORPA and Southern Cross University present
Kinship Bangarra dance theatre Choreographed by stephen page
“Striking, layered, surprising... absolutely transporting.” Sun HERALD
Internationally acclaimed Bangarra Dance Theatre rekindles the Aboriginal culture of Australia with an original and breathtaking theatrical experience: Kinship by award-winning choreographer Stephen Page.
find herself on a brolga feeding ground. She is challenged by her clan totem and takes us on a sensual, mystical journey. Brolga draws us deep into the Aboriginal spirituality of the natural world.
Kinship opens with Brolga, inspired by an ancient creation story. In north-east Arnhem Land a young girl ventures out before sunset to
Kinship continues with ID, asking important questions about identity and what it means to be Aboriginal in the 21st century.
Tuesday 17 November, 7.30pm Wednesday 18 November, 12pm & 7.30pm Diner & bar from 6pm — Lismore City Hall — 95 minutes (including interval) creative team Brolga Choreography Stephen Page Music David Page, Steve Francis Costume Design Jennifer Irwin Nesting Kulum Peter England Original Lighting Joe Mercurio Original Set John Matkovic and Stephen Page
ticket prices
SPECIAL BONUS
patron advice
A $55 S $50 C $47 U/18 $22
Join the cast of Bangarra Dance Theatre for a Q&A session after the performance on Tues 17 November
Recommended for ages 12+. Contains adult themes. Theatrical smoke, strobe lighting and elevated sound levels are used in this production.
Subscriber price A $44 S $40 C $38 U/18 $18
ID Choreography Stephen Page Music David Page Set Design Jacob Nash Lighting Design Matt Cox Costume Design Emma Howell Cultural Advisors Kathy Balngayngu Marika, Djakapurra Munyarryun
performance partner
Kinship is part of NORPA’s 2015 Theatre for Schools program
21
norpa 2015 season
SEASON PARTNERS
Beyond
Beer Drinking Woman
Queen of the Night
Australia Day
The 26-Storey Treehouse
Country Song
the farm Hamlet
Railway Wonderland Cockfight
Beyond Hamlet The 26-Storey Treehouse Kinship These projects have been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body
Cockfight
Railway Wonderland Cockfight
Hamlet The 26-Storey Treehouse Kinship Railway Wonderland These projects are supported by the NSW Government throught Arts NSW.
Cockfight
Kinship
Beyond Cockfight This project has been assisted by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland
Australia Day This project has been supported by the Victorian Government through Arts Victoria
Kinship
Kinship
Kinship
22
Kinship
subscribe
Why subscribe?
You only need to choose 3 or more shows to create a NORPA Subscription package, and look at what you get!
major discounts
flexibility
NORPA subscribers enjoy a 20% discount on eligible ticket prices. Subscription packages start from as little as $54 (Under 18) $102 (Concession) $108 (Senior) $120 (Adult) for 3 shows – a fraction of what folks are paying in the big cities for the same shows. Subscribe and experience world-class theatre at small town prices. Don’t forget, kids can be subscribers too – it’s a wonderful way to introduce young people to theatre and to experience events together.
NORPA subscribers are free to exchange their tickets for another show in the NORPA season, if tickets are available. Just contact the staff at our box office, at least two days before the show, and they will do the hard work for you.
early bird prizes Win festival passes. Subscribe before Friday 1st May 2015, and you and a friend could be enjoying one of the North Coast’s fantastic local festivals. Three gold prizes to win. More details on p40.
never miss out Purchasing a Subscription Package means your seats are organised well in advance. You’ll be patting yourself on the back for getting those (cheaper!) tickets to the sellout shows instead of saying “Oh, I really wanted to see that!”
add tickets
support norpa Purchasing a Subscription Package is a great way to support NORPA so we can continue to present outstanding performing arts in this region.
subscription form
When you subscribe you can add additional (regular priced) tickets to your subscription package so you can sit together.
23
Find your Subscription Form at the back of this brochure.
Photo | Kate Holmes
Cockfight (2015)
about norpa
Let’s talk about NORPA
Formed in 1993, NORPA (Northern Rivers Performing Arts) is a leading performing arts organisation based in the regional centre of Lismore, NSW. The Northern Rivers region is our physical and spiritual home – we draw inspiration from its landscape, history, people and culture. We are driven to tell our stories in accessible and dynamic ways. Our works challenge perceptions of the performing arts. They use dance, circus, visual art, live music, surprising locations, audience interaction, and all manner of human and technological skill to tell the story. Our projects are ambitious and take us, and our audiences, to new places.
We also program works from leading and emerging national companies that reflect the diversity of our community – we balance risky productions with sure-fire entertainment. We love to spark robust conversation in the foyer and we love to surprise our audiences. NORPA is a not-for-profit organisation led by a management committee of local professionals, run by a small team of theatre and venue professionals, and supported by a large group of volunteers. We also manage the Lismore City Hall, on behalf of Lismore City Council, as a venue for hire as well as a space for many different community gatherings.
Our original works connect us to our community – they are created with the imagination and spirit of our community in mind. And they are well received. Our home-grown shows are performed before large, sell-out crowds.
25
NORPA is part of the conversation defining contemporary Australian performing arts and storytelling. It is proof that small towns have big scope for creativity.
Photo | Kate Holmes
My Radio Heart, performed in Lismore and Sydney (2014)
about norpa
Generator telling our stories
In 2009 NORPA launched Generator, a program dedicated to developing new theatre works in regional Australia. Generator develops theatre through a highly collaborative and exploratory process. We research with and within the local community, we partner with local organisations, and we collaborate with renowned professional artists across a multitude of art forms.
a light on contemporary social issues. So far our projects have connected with people marginalised by their experiences of homelessness (The HOME Project); transcended the social stigma and stereotyping surrounding people living with a disability (My Radio Heart); reconnected the community with our regional rail history and heritage (Railway Wonderland); and reminded us of the tragedy of young lives lost on our roads (Engine).
NORPA Generator creates thought-provoking, adventurous theatre that amplifies marginalised voices and shines
get involved in generator Throughout the year we run workshops, open auditions, free events, development showings and open rehearsals. We welcome your involvement, input and feedback. Sign up to our newsletter online at norpa.org.au to learn more, or contact Bethwynn Hackett, our Creative Producer — creativeproducer@norpa.org.au
27
about norpa
Generator projects in development
DREAMER
THREE BROTHERS
Dreamer explores the stories of those amongst us who dare to dream. The outsiders and dreamers who dare to live outside the mainstream. Dreamer reflects our region’s melting pot of visionaries, inventors, the creative or creatively mad, the rebellious and those committed to making change. Not all dreams come true and sometimes you have to risk everything to realise your dream.
Three brothers return to country from the north, south and west. All three have made regular pilgrimages for funerals, but none has had quite the effect of the wake following their father’s burial. This is a story of healing old wounds, addressing truths and sharing deep secrets in a new century. Inspired by a Bundjalung creation story and local historical events, this contemporary new work will be told through song, dance and story.
The creative team currently includes Director Julian Louis, dramaturg Janis Balodis and composer Shenzo Gregory, and is developed in partnership with Linneaus Estate, The Northern Rivers Conservatorium and Arts NSW.
The creative team includes Rhoda Roberts, Julian Louis, choreographer Frances Rings, author Melissa Lucaschenko, artist Djon Mundine, actors Billy McPherson, Thomas E.S. Kelly, Kirk Page and Bundjalung elders and community. Three Brothers is part of Bundjalung Nghari, a 3-year Generator project celebrating and connecting with the local Bundjalung culture.
generator projects TOURING
THE HOME PROJECT
MY RADIO HEART
The Home Project grew out of a three-year creative project exploring homelessness in the Northern Rivers. The event-style interactive theatre experience includes soundscapes, art installations, poetry and video.
My Radio Heart is a love story for the 21st century featuring local, mixed abilities electro band Tralala Blip as performers. Narrative, dance, and large-scale audio-visuals combine with live electronica and soundscapes to create an immersive work of incredible beauty and emotion.
The Home Project has been invited to be part of the Australian exhibition at the Prague Quadrennial of Performance Design & Space in June 2015.
My Radio Heart was presented by NORPA in Lismore and Urban Theatre Projects in Sydney in 2014. The Centre for Art & Media (ZKM) in Karlsruhe, Germany has invited the team to perform My Radio Heart in Germany in 2015.
The HOME Project was developed in partnership with Southern Cross University and the Winsome Hotel.
Images top L-R: Gavin Webber and Josh Thomson in Cockfight creative development | Lydian Dunbar & Claudie Frock in My Radio Heart | Billy McPherson
& Kirk Page in Three Brothers creative development Middle L-R: Neridah Waters and Jonny Nasser in Railway Wonderland | Kate Champion
workshops at Lismore City Hall | Karla Dickens art installation at The HOME Project Bottom L-R: Mitch King leading workshops for Bundjalung
29
Nghari | Lydian Dunbar and Claudie Frock in My Radio Heart | Josh Thomson in Cockfight creative development
Photo | Grant MacIntyre
Open House performed in Lismore (2011)
about norpa get involved with norpa
NORPA Community
theatre for schools
workshops
Do you remember the first time you experienced the magic of a live theatre show? Ask any playwright, actor or theatre maker and it’s often their early exposure to the theatre that had a profound effect on them. In 2015 NORPA have an exciting program of shows that will inspire, educate and engage with young people of all ages. We connect with pre-schools, primary, high schools and homeschoolers across the region. We offer student group prices (teachers complimentary), provide teacher resources specific to each show, and organise additional activities such as workshops and opportunities to meet the cast.
There’s nothing quite as rewarding as learning first hand from experts in the field. Throughout the year NORPA run workshops across a number of areas and disciplines, often in conjunction with the companies that are touring.
If you would like more information about our program please contact Sam Hall, Education Coordinator — coordinator@norpa.org.au
If you’d like to be kept informed please contact Bethwynn Hackett, Creative Producer — creativeproducer@norpa.org.au — and ask to be added to our workshop database. Alternatively you can sign up to our newsletter at norpa.org.au to keep in the loop with all the activities at NORPA. venues for hire Our home, the Lismore City Hall, is here for you too. So if you’re looking for somewhere to stage the next Elvis festival, your annual company shindig, rehearse a performance, celebrate a wedding or just get together with the local knitting circle, you can do it here.
volunteer! When you come to NORPA the people who greet you at the door, or show you to your seat, are all volunteers - doing it for the love of the arts. There are too many to list here individually, however, we thank each and every one of them for their help and support. NORPA could not survive without them!
No matter how big or small, there is a space just right for your event at the beautifully renovated Lismore City Hall. For more information about venue hire please visit www.lismorecityhall.com.au or contact Luke Payne, Venue Coordinator on 02 6622 0300 — venue@lismorecityhall.com.au
If you are interested in volunteering for NORPA please contact Sharon Rigby, Front of House Manager on 02 6622 0300 or — foh@norpa.org.au
For full event information about What’s On at Lismore City Hall visit www.lismorecityhall.com.au
31
Photo | Kate Holmes
My Radio Heart, performed in Lismore and Sydney (2014)
about norpa
Embrace NORPA Give and be part of NORPA’s future. So many of you dig deep to support NORPA. You are our lifeline, enabling us to create smart, original theatre and attract first-class touring shows. No financial contribution is too small and every cent will go towards ensuring a bright future for local theatre. NORPA is a not-for-profit organisation on the register of cultural organisations, so all donations over $2 are tax deductible. our promise to you
Your donation will
NORPA will continue to foster the telling of stories specific to the Northern Rivers and its communities.
— Enable us to develop, rehearse and perform original community-based works — Fund the professional development of artists
We will continue to actively work with local youth and Indigenous communities. We will continue to create and develop dynamic performing arts that inspire and engage the community.
— Subsidise student attendance at NORPA shows and workshops — Connect leading creative professionals with local artists through master classes and workshops — Help improve the infrastructure needed for quality performance
how to help Make a donation alongside your 2015 Season subscription or contact Emily Berry General Manager — manager@ norpa.org.au
You can also donate online at www.norpa.org.au From all of us at NORPA we warmly thank you for your support.
33
Photo | Grant MacIntyre
Beautiful Bones, performed in Lismore (2012)
Our Partners We couldn’t do it without you! Thank you to the following organisations and businesses — you are helping us enrich the cultural life of our region. government partners
GENERATOR partners
of
a
state pl y PERFORMANCE partners
MEDIA partners THE BYRON SHIRE
netdaily
SEASON partners
If you are interested in partnering with NORPA please contact Emily Berry, General Manager — manager@norpa.org.au 35
Photo | Kirra Pendergast
Pre-show pop-up diner, Lismore City Hall forecourt
about norpa
Your visit
our home
access for all
In 2013, the Lismore City Hall underwent exciting renovations transforming the 1960s building into a multi-purpose performance venue. Lismore City Hall, with its fullylicensed bar, covered outdoor areas and fully upgraded auditorium is now a wonderful destination for a special night out.
Lismore City Hall is committed to ensuring disabled access. There is a lift from ground level to the theatre with entry from both Ballina Road and Bounty Street. A hearing loop is installed in the venue’s theatre.
diner and bar
1300 066 772 or boxoffice@norpa.org.au
Before each evening performance of a NORPA show enjoy a scrumptious, light meal with your friends as the sun sets. Our licensed bar is open before, during and after the show. Drinks purchased from the bar are permitted inside the theatre. Please note smoking is not permitted at the venue.
mobile phones, cameras and recording equipment
Please contact the Box Office for assistance with the hearing loop and seating for disabled patrons.
meet the makers Join cast members, directors and writers after the show at an open friendly Q&A session. Look for the Special Bonus on each show page in this brochure for more details. latecomers We will do our best to seat latecomers if there is a suitable break in the performance, but some performances may have a lock-out period. It’s best to arrive in good time to collect your tickets, have a drink at the bar and settle into your seats without the rush.
37
Photography or recording of any kind is not permitted in the theatre. Please remember to turn off mobile phones when you enter the theatre. parking Street parking is available in Bounty Street, Molesworth Street and on Ballina Road. Disabled parking is available at the Ballina Road entry to Lismore City Hall.
Photo | Greg Barrett Photo | Dominic Finlay-Jones
about norpa
Ticket information
BUYING TICKETS
ticket prices
Online
Subscription packages
Purchase tickets online at www.norpa.org.au
NORPA subscribers enjoy 20% discount on all eligible ticket prices. Create a Subscription Package from your choice of 3 shows or more. See page 23 for the full list of subscriber benefits.
Visit the Box Office The Box Office is located at Lismore City Hall, 1 Bounty St, Lismore and is open 9am-2pm Monday to Friday and one hour before show times.
Groups Groups of 4 or more people enjoy concession priced tickets (15% discount on full-priced tickets)
By telephone
Concessions
Call 1300 066 772 during Box Office operating hours. Please note a $2.20 booking fee is charged for all telephone and over the counter purchases.
a perfect gift Get in everyone’s good books and shout your friends or family to a show or a NORPA Subscription Package. Gift vouchers are available for purchase online, over the phone or in person at the Box Office during operating hours.
children at norpa performances We’re kid-friendly. Children two years and under are welcome to sit on the lap of a paying patron. All too uncomfortable? Buy an extra seat - tickets for children are sold at the Under 18 price.
numbered seating
Concession priced tickets (15% discount on full priced tickets) are available to the following cardholders: Centrelink concession (Healthcare & Pension), full-time students, Veterans Affairs, Australian Apprenticeship, Northern Rivers Writers Centre. Concession cards must be presented at the Box Office/entry to theatre.
Seniors Seniors enjoy 10% discount on full-priced tickets. Seniors card must be presented at Box Office/ entry to theatre.
Unders 18s Fixed $22 ticket price for shows in NORPA’s 2015 Season. Proof of age must be presented at Box Office/entry to theatre. Please note the patron advice for each show.
Student Rush
Tickets are issued for numbered seats unless otherwise stated.
$22 tickets are available for full-time student cardholders on the night of the performance, at the Box Office only. Subject to availability.
Ticket Refunds & Exchanges There are no refunds on tickets except as required by law or under the Live Performance Australia Ticketing Code of Conduct. Ticket exchanges are available to NORPA Season subscribers by contacting the Box Office at least 48 hours before the show commences. The unwanted ticket must be returned before the exchange ticket can be issued.
39
School groups At select performances school groups of 10 or more students receive $15 tickets per student. One complimentary ticket for teachers per 10 students. Please note patron advice for each show. Please contact Sam Hall our Education Coordinator — coordinator@norpa.org.au for more information.
subscribe
Subscribe and win We’re offering early-bird subscribers a chance to win tickets to some of our best local festivals − the Byron Bay Writers Festival, Mullum Music Festival and Sample Food Festival event. Become a NORPA subscriber before Friday 1 May 2015 and automatically go in the draw to win one of these fabulous experiences. Winners will be notified by phone and email on Thursday 7 May 2015.
BYRON BAY WRITERS FESTIVAL
byron bay writers festival Double pass (3 day) to the Byron Bay Writers Festival 2015 7 — 9 August 2015 www.byronbaywritersfestival.com
7–9 AUGUST 2015
www.byronbaywritersfestival.com BBWF2015_Ad for Norpa.indd 1
4/12/2014 4:53 pm
mullum music festival Double pass (3 day) to the Mullum Music Festival 19 – 22 November 2015 www.mullummusicfestival.com
sample food festival Double pass to a Sample Food Festival 2015 event (details determined by Sample Events) 5 September 2015 www.samplensw.com
SUBSCRIBE
STEP 1
Subscribe by choosing three or more productions and follow these easy steps. Or visit norpa.org.au to subscribe online Step 1
Complete your details and those of your accompanying subscriber(s). Each subscriber needs to complete the information section.
Step 2
Choose your subscription. Add any additional tickets for children or friends.
Step 3
Indicate your seating preference.
Step 4
Complete your payment details.
Step 5
Submit your booking.
Step 1. Subscriber information Details must be completed for each subscriber. If there are more than two subscribers please use an extra booking form which can be found at norpa.org.au. If you wish to be seated with friends please submit your request under Step 3 Seating Preferences.
Subscriber one (Your tickets will be sent to this address) Have you subscribed previously?
Yes
No
Name Address Postcode Telephone (home )
(mobile)
Yes, I would like to receive your email newsletter
Concession type
Card number
Please provide a photocopy or scan of your concession card. See page 39 for accepted concession types.
Subscriber TWO Have you subscribed previously?
Yes
No
Name Address Postcode Telephone (home ) Email Concession type
(mobile) Yes, I would like to receive your email newsletter Card number
Please provide a photocopy or scan of your concession card. See page 39 for accepted concession types.
41
SUBSCRIBE
STEP 2
Step 2. Build your own subscription Select 3 shows or more, indicate the show times, number of tickets and calculate the cost. And finally, add any regular tickets for friends and family.
Production
Performance day, date & time
Ticket type
Quantity
Subscriber price
(A) Subtotal
Quantity
Add regular tickets
Beyond
Adult
$40
$49
Fri 27 & Sat 28 March, 7.30pm
Senior
$36
$44
Conc // Group 4+
$34
$42
Under 18
$18
$22
Cabaret Diva
Adult
$33
$41
Fri 8 & Sat 9 May 7.30pm
Senior
$30
$37
Conc // Group 4+
$28
$35
Under 18
$18
$22
Australia Day
Adult
$40
$49
Tues 23 & Wed 24 June, 7.30pm
Senior
$36
$44
Conc // Group 4+
$34
$42
Under 18
$18
$22
The 26-Storey Treehouse
Adult
$33
$41
Senior
$30
$37
Fri 17 July, 6pm
Conc // Group 4+
$28
$35
Under 18
$18
$22
Country Song
Adult
$40
$49
Thurs 13-Sat 15 August, 11am (Thurs only) & 7.30pm
Senior
$36
$44
Conc // Group 4+
$34
$42
Under 18
$18
$22
Hamlet
Adult
$40
$49
Sat 29 & Mon 31 August, 11am (Mon only) & 7.30pm
Senior
$36
$44
Conc // Group 4+
$34
$42
Under 18
$18
$22
Cockfight
Adult
$40
$49
Thurs 17 - Sat 19 Sept, 7.30pm
Senior
$36
$44
Conc // Group 4+
$34
$42
Under 18
$18
$22
Adult
$40
$49
Senior
$36
$44
Conc // Group 4+
$34
$42
Under 18
$18
$22
Kinship
Adult
$44
$55
Tues 17 & Wed 18 Nov, 12pm (Wed only) & 7.30pm
Senior
$40
$50
Conc // Group 4+
$38
$47
Under 18
$18
Bring the kids or grandkids!
Railway Wonderland Thurs 22 October Sat 7 Nov, 8pm
Bring the kids or grandkids!
A$
$22
B$
If you require any assistance please visit or call the NORPA Box Office on 1300 066 772 Monday — Friday 9am-2pm
(B) Subtotal
SUBSCRIBE
STEP 3, 4 & 5
Step 3. Seating preferences Please indicate your preferred seating Front row Tiered seating
As central as possible On an aisle Wheelchair access required
Floor seating (no stairs)
If other, please describe: Do you require any Access Services, such as hearing loop or wheelchair access? If so, please describe: I'd like to sit next to my friend (please provide friend's name):
Embrace NORPA - make a donation (optional) Do you love our home grown shows? Help us fuel our Generator program. See page 27. Our NORPA donors are greatly valued, and are critical to the future of the creative community in the Northern Rivers. Please include your dollar contribution in Section (C) of Step 4, below. Enthusiast ($2-49)
Player ($50-499)
Co-Star ($500-999)
Star ($1000-4999)
Step 4. Payment details (A) Subscription SUB-TOTAL
$
(B) Regular tickets SUB-TOTAL
$
(C) Donation SUB-TOTAL
$
(D) Postage FEE*
$
(E) Booking FEE
$ 2.20
TOTAL
$
*Add the following charges if applicable: Postage fees Standard $2.50 Registered $7.00
payment method Credit card
By cash (Box Office only)
Cheque payable to NORPA
credit card VISA Mastercard
Redeem gift voucher # _________
CVC (last 3 digits in signature panel)
Card number
Card expiry
Name on card
Signature
Step 5. Submit your booking IN PERSON
EMAIL*
NORPA Box Office Lismore City Hall 1 Bounty Street Lismore NSW 2480
NORPA Box Office PO Box 225 Lismore NSW 2480
NORPA Subscriptions boxoffice@norpa.org.au
43
* please attach scanned booking form & copy of concession card if required
Contacting NORPA box office
administration
1300 066 772
02 6622 0300
boxoffice@norpa.org.au
admin@norpa.org.au
Lismore City Hall 1 Bounty St, Lismore, NSW
PO Box 225 Lismore NSW 2480
Open 9am–2pm weekdays & 1 hour before shows
norpa.org.au staff
board
Julian Louis Artistic Director Emily Berry General Manager
David Wolff Chair Katie O’Rourke Deputy Chair Dorothy Locke Treasurer Vicki Brooke Andrew Binns Nick Lake
Karl Johnson Technical Manager Luke Payne Venue Coordinator Sharon Rigby Front of House Manager Dan Jackson Senior Venue Technician Lil McLennan Facilities Coordinator Clare McGregor Marketing & Communications Megan Louis Marketing & Design Sam Hall Marketing & Education Bethwyn Hackett Creative Producer Melitta Firth Creative Producer Mitch King Trainee Associate Producer Donna Gaertner Finance Officer Naja Lush Administration & Ticketing Sarah Jane Loxton Ticketing
newsletter
Sign up for our newsletter to keep up with our latest news and special offers. You can join online at norpa.org.au
Like us facebook.com/norpa.lismore twitter Follow us twitter.com/NORPAOz @NORPAOz
44
Photo | Greg Barrett
Railway Wonderland, 2012 – photo by Grant MacIntyre Cover art includes imagery from NORPA Generator productions between 2009-2014.
norpa.org.au