Trapper

The question of who is in control will be explored in the premiere of Arena Theatre Company’s new work for young adults, Trapper at Arts Centre Melbourne’s Fairfax Studio from 2 – 5 August 2017

Featuring slam poetry and demanding physical agility, four performers battle each other inside a series of giant sculptural machines, hoping to discover the proof of free will. Playwright Angus Cerini, poet Emilie Zoey Baker and Arena Theatre Company directors Christian Leavesley and Jolyon James explore the hidden influences on decision-making through four archetypal characters – The Gamer, The Fighter, The Architect and The Poet.

The characters build and throw their arguments at the set and each other, as they consider “Do we live in a prison or a playground?” Trapper draws on evolutionary DNA, big data, retail anthropology, surveillance culture, social media use, spatial design and behavioural sciences, challenging whether free will and the individual exists.

“Trapper investigates how humans operate within systems, both man-made and of the natural world,” says Director Christian Leavesley. “It looks at the love/hate relationship humans have with these systems that can influence our thought patterns, serve our needs and desires, and entrap us in particular behaviours – often all at the same time.”

Arena Theatre Company has a fifty-year history of creating innovative works for young people. The company is powered by the twin drivers of art and audience: creating inspiring live performance known for genuine engagement with young people aged 5 – 25. Their aim is to speak to young people in languages they understand but in ways they never thought possible.

Director: Christian Leavesley Performers: Rachel Perks, Hamish Irvine, Daniel Schlusser, Naomi Rukavina Text: Angus Cerini, Emilie Zoey Baker, Christian Leavesley, Jolyon James Design: Jolyon James Sound Design and Composition: Ania Reynolds Video Design: Sean Healy Lighting Design: Paul Lim (Additive) Costume Design: Matilda Woodroofe Set Construction: Additive Production Management: Emily O’Brien Stage Management: Pippa Wright Assistant Stage Manager: Julia Orlando