A hymn to the transformative power of grief, to the wonder of the unknown, Geelong Arts Centre in association with Sweet Reason and Performing Lines, presents the world premiere of Mountain in Studio 4 – Geelong Arts Centre from 21 June 2022.
Mountain is the story of a man in pieces. Adrift in grief, he becomes fixated by the idea of hiking up a mountain. But even on the simplest of journeys it can be difficult to find the way back…
The man’s journey up the mountain opens precipitously outward, to encompass not just his own voice, but the voice of the mountain, the wind, of a planet crying out for what it’s losing and what it’s already lost.
Shifting perspectives from the deeply personal to the epic, this new solo work by writer/director Kit Brookman and performer André Jewson is a determined search for hope amidst utter devastation.
The inception of Mountain has been supported by Geelong Art Centre’s Creative Engine grant program. Creative Engine supports artists and performance makers, Geelong Art Centre is proud to see this exciting collaboration come to life in its World Premiere, illustrating the ferocious tenacity of all involved in this project.
“Geelong Arts Centre is committed to supporting and showcasing extraordinary stories and providing professional opportunities for artists living and working in the Geelong Region,” said Joel McGuinness, Geelong Arts Centre CEO & Creative Director.
“It is vital right now to champion connections through art making and sharing of ourselves with each other and the world, and we believe that the magic where art and audience meet is precious and must be celebrated,” said McGuinness.
“The Creative Engine program and the financial support it provides encourages professional theatrical work to be developed in Geelong, something that is long overdue in one of Australia’s largest regional cities,” said Performer and Co-Creator, André Jewson.
“Working as a professional performer has always meant working away from my hometown. That’s no longer the case!” said Jewson.
Writer & Director: Kit Brookman | Performer: André Jewson | Set & Costume Design: Charlotte Lane | Lighting Design: Richard Vabre | Movement Direction: Caroline Meaden | Sound Design & Composition: James Brown | Associate Sound Design: Daniel Herten
Mountain
Studio 4 – Geelong Arts Centre, 81 Ryrie Street, Geelong
Season: 21 – 25 June 2022
Information and Bookings: www.geelongartscentre.org.au
Image: André Jewson in the 2020 Creative Engine Development of Mountain – photo by Sarah Walker