Saltbush centres on the journey of two friends and their spiritual guide on foot as they cross Australian landscapes – river country, an urban landscape, desert, and the sea. The journey is one of discovering the land, growing an understanding, and acknowledging how it shapes and inspires personal journeys.

Saltbush is a plant that can be found across Australia and so it represents a common thread between Indigenous nations and First Nations peoples. This shared idea acted as a point of inspiration for the narrative, contemporary painting, dance, and instrumental music created by First Nations artists. These artistic forms were used as a means of interpreting the natural features of the landscape.

Through its use of sensor and infrared cameras, Saltbush allows young audiences to interact, play and perform in the show. It also provides a unique experience for parents and teachers as they witness the children become involved.

TPO’s award winning artistry in multi-media theatre for young people is combined with the work of acclaimed First Nations artists working with members of the TPO company – composer Lou Bennett (Yorta Yorta/ Dja Dja Wurrung) with Spartaco Cortesi (Italy), visual artist Delwyn Mannix (Wangkangurru) with Digital Designer: Elsa Mersi & Rossano Monti (Italy), choreography Deon Hastie (Tjapukai) with Anna Balducci, Sasha Zahra (dramaturgy) with artistic direction of Insite Arts director Jason Cross and TPO director Davide Venturini

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PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE

Please note: There is one performance open to the general public. All other performances are reserved for school groups.

Thursday 14 May at 12:00pm:  General public performance

Public bookings are available for this performance only.
School bookings are arranged directly through The Wedge.

Suitable for Ages 4-10 years. Young people under the age of 15 must be accompanied at all times.

PERFORMANCE FORMAT:
This performance takes place on the Wedge Stage, with the audience seated on stage around the performers, creating an intimate experience. Audience capacity is limited to 50 people. For larger group bookings, please contact The Wedge to discuss availability.

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CREATIVE TEAM:

Choreographer: Deon Hastie (Australia/ Tjapukai)
Composer/ Musician: Lou Bennett (Australia/ Yorta Yorta/ Dja Dja Wurrung) with Spartaco Cortesi (Italy)
Visual Artist/ Painter: Delwyn Mannix (Australia/ Wangkangurru)

Co-Artistic Directors: Davide Venturini (Italy) & Jason Cross (Australia)
Dramaturgy: Sasha Zahra (Australia)
Digital Designer: Elsa Mersi (Italy)
Technical Designer: Rossano Monti (Italy)
Artistic collaborations: Edoardo Donatini (Italy) and Francesco Gandi (Italy)
Technical & Production Manager: Niccolo Gallio, (Aust/Italy)
Producer: Insite Arts _ Jason Cross (Australia)
TPO Manager: Valentina Martini (Italy)

Current Cast:

Luke Currie-Richardson (Kuku Yalanji, Djabugay, Munaldjali, Butchulla & Meriam)
Cleopatra Pryce (Kuku Yalanji, Kawrareg and Kulkalgal)
Leonie Whyman (Makwarra, Paakantji, Wiradjuri)

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