An innovative intercultural physical theatre piece combining a first time ever Guitar/Guzheng musical collaboration, Cross Encounters presents Nirvana as part of La Mama’s War-Rak/Banksia Festival on Saturday 11 December 2021.
Nirvana is an experimental physical theatre performance depicting a journey through suffering and struggle, while exploring the search for beauty and the idea of rebirth out of darkness.
Based on the theme of the ‘Phoenix’s rebirth from fire’. It presents a story about building the strength to withstand hardship, through a unique cross-cultural performance with a distinctive musical approach to accompaniment featuring Chinese and Western elements.
The collaboration between artists from different cultural backgrounds is the cornerstone of this project. The story, performance style, music and creative line up are all dynamic elements which make for an unexpected encounter and a truly unique work.
Lead by emerging director Bronya Doyle and assistant director Naomi Zhou, this show illustrates the process of rebirth and change, while finding beauty and strength in hardship. The intercultural nature of the music created by experienced local musician John O’beirne and Chinese artist Vicky Deng adds a strong flavour to the piece.
Cross Encounters is a NFP performing arts company that is dedicated to creating innovative cross-cultural theatrical productions. The activities are implemented by a small group with the majority having Melbourne University and theatre background.
Currently the group has a particular focus on art that addresses Chinese-Australian contemporary physical theatre. It has been acknowledged as an emerging recognised group which is creating ground breaking intercultural arts productions. Nirvana is the company’s 2021 annual production.
Nirvana takes place on the La Mama Theatre bridge link on Saturday 11 December 2021 (7.20pm) as part of La Mama’s War-Rak/Banksia Festival. For more information, visit: www.lamama.com.au for details. Free event!
Image: Nirvana – illustration by Genevieve Byrne