A delightfully self-aware, satirical take on Milton’s classic epic poem, writers James Jackson and Elizabeth Brennan (Animal Farm, Bad News) join forces with Darebin Speakeasy to transform John Milton’s 17th century poem to reflect the dystopian post-paradise that is 2022 in Paradise Lost, at Northcote Town Hall Arts Centre from 20 – 30 July.
Adam and Eve are really digging Paradise. They’re happy, super happy in their airtight bubbleland. There’s no judgement here. No shame. It’s the perfect place for some relentless fornication. But nothing this good lasts long.
Satan’s sick of the cherubs getting stuck in the ventilation shafts. He tries to complain but God chucks him out. In hell, a napalm covered wonderland, Satan hatches a master plan. And so the fall begins.
Paradise Lost is a satirical adaptation about the narcissism of creation and our fading hope for the future by Melbourne’s Bloomshed, who create cutting edge, political satire, energising classic texts through physical comedy and outrageous dance breaks.
Paradise Lost is a whirlwind ride through creation: it took God seven days, it’ll take us just under an hour.
Creators: Elizabeth Brennan, John Collopy, Zachary Dunbar, Justin Gardam, Edan Goodall, James Jackson, James Malcher, Emily O’Connor | Featuring: Laura Aldous, Elizabeth Brennan, Zachary Dunbar, Edan Goodall, James Jackson, Anna Louey, James Malcher, Emily O’Connor | Sound Designer/Dramaturg: Justin Gardam | Lighting Designer: John Collopy | Set Designer: Nathan Burmeister | Stage Manager: Ashleigh Walwyn | Producer: Sophie Ashkanasy | Associate Producer: Ana Zhang
Paradise Lost
Northcote Town Hall Arts Centre, 189 Hight Street, Northcote
Season: 20 – 30 July 2022
Information and bookings: www.arts.darebin.vic.gov.au
Image: Gregory Lorenzutti