Teaming up for the first time in twenty years, Melbourne Theatre Company and Arena Theatre Company premiere Marlin – a captivating new work exploring the special relationship between grandparents and grandchildren, and themes of grief, redemption and victory.
When a fisherman and his granddaughter attempt to return a marlin to the sea, their journey becomes a life and death adventure that neither of them had anticipated. Drifting far out to sea and into the night, the pair wrestle with forces beyond their control in their effort to save this enormous fish.
Set in the game fishing regions of Northern Queensland, Marlin is inspired by classic traditions of seafaring literature.
Director Christian Leavesley said “I wanted to conceive a work in which young people and their elders can share time in the theatre that is energised by them experiencing it side by side. It is intended that both generations will be excited by what they presume is intended for the other.”
“Marlin provides young imaginations with the possibility of adventure, and older imaginations with an opportunity to reflect on their own lives.”
Arena Theatre Company has been making internationally acclaimed theatre for young people for almost 50 years. It is a leader in contemporary theatre practice and one of Australia’s longest running producers of theatre for young people.
Melbourne Theatre Company has renewed its commitment to theatre for young people and families, presenting its first family show in over a decade in 2013 with The Book of Everything, following it up this year with Big Bad Wolf and now Marlin.
Director: Christian Leavesley Cast: Ashlea Pyke, Christopher Bunworth, Jacob Williams Writer: Damien Millar Assistant Director: Jolyon James Designer: Marg Horwell Lighting Designer: Rachel Burke Sound Designer: Jethro Woodward Composer: Wang-Zheng Ting
Marlin
The Lawler – Southbank Theatre, Southbank Boulevard, Southbank
Season: 25 September – 11 October 2014
Bookings: (03) 8688 0800 or online at www.mtc.com.au
For more information, visit: www.mtc.com.au/marlin for details.
Image: courtesy of Melbourne and Arena Theatre Companies