LURKING IN THE SHADOWS

In the depths of the Australian theatre canon lies a haunting and mysterious genre known as Australian Gothic Theatre. Emerging from the rich tapestry of the gothic tradition, it has weaved its way into the hearts of audiences, captivating them with its eerie allure and spinechilling narratives. Although nowadays the genre is often associated with dark eye makeup, all-black outfits and heavy metal, this wasn’t always the case.

Let's rewind the clock to the 18th century when the gothic genre first emerged in Europe. Characterised by its brooding atmospheres, supernatural elements, and psychological exploration, it served as a reflection of societal fears and anxieties.

As such, religious and domestic settings and themes were often used to subvert the familiar and seemingly safe domains of life. We take the ordinary and twist it into something bone-chilling, evoking a sense of unease and blurring the boundaries between reality and the supernatural.

Picture this: creaking doors, ghostly apparitions, and eerie settings that make you question your sanity. It's like that feeling when a cold breeze brushes against your neck… Or you hear a strange noise in the middle of the night… Who – or what – could be lurking in the shadows?

The gothic genre taps into our fears while challenging societal norms, using terror to lure us into confronting the shadows that lurk within. It's a way to shake up the norm, get people thinking, and maybe even give them a fright or two.

Now, take those themes and step into the mesmerising realm of Australian Gothic, where darkness and intrigue intertwine in the land down under. Australian Gothic found its voice drawing inspiration from our vast landscapes, colonial history and the haunting legacy of our convict days, and Indigenous Australian folklore.

Our haunting landscapes often become ‘characters’ themselves, reflecting the struggles of isolation, cultural identity, and the collision between the untamed outback and fragile civility. At its core, Australian Gothic tackles themes like isolation, cultural identity, and the battle between nature and civilization. No exploration of the genre would be complete without a nod to the enigmatic tale, Picnic at Hanging Rock. This haunting tale encapsulates the genre's essence. With its ethereal atmosphere, enigmatic plot, and exploration of suppressed desires, it continues to haunt audiences and solidify its place as a classic Australian story.

And it continues to cast its spell on audiences today. Instead of focusing on our past, these days Australian Gothic storytellers often ask us to confront our future. Their stories usually involve contemporary issues such as environmental degradation, the erosion of cultural identity, and the ongoing repercussions of historical injustices. By blending the macabre with the familiar, Australian Gothic challenges audiences to confront the darkness lurking beneath the surface and contemplate what it truly means to be Australian