K–12 EDUCATION PROGRAM
WE ACKNOWLEDGE THE DHARUG PEOPLE, TRADITIONAL CUSTODIANS OF THE LAND WHERE RIVERSIDE IS NOW SITUATED, AND THE BURRAMATTAGAL PEOPLE, A CLAN OF THE DHARUG, WHO SETTLED ALONG THE PARRAMATTA RIVER OVER 60,000 YEARS AGO. WE PAY OUR RESPECTS TO ELDERS PAST, PRESENT AND EMERGING AND WE ACKNOWLEDGE THE CULTURE AND HISTORY OF THE ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER PEOPLE.
Photo credit: Destination NSW
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A MESSAGE FROM THE PRODUCER In a world where we all have a supercomputer in our pockets, more powerful than the one that got humankind to the moon, imagination seems to be valued less and less. Why do we need creativity when any question we might have can be answered in 30 seconds by Alexa, and a full-length play can be written by Chat GPT? Imagination helps us to be better problem solvers, to try on new realities and become more empathetic. It’s what makes ideas become reality. It makes us better, more evolved humans. Live theatre is the perfect vehicle for imagination, as its people gathering in a place where they have a collective experience that is unique to that moment in time. It opens worlds of possibilities. This is why, at Riverside Theatres, imagination is at the core of our business. We’re your imagination brokers. Our 2024 Education program will transport you and your students to new worlds. What would happen if you could catch a star? What would you do if a magical cat took you back in time? How would you like a trip to Verona, during a time when feuding families wreaked havoc and a couple of love-struck teenagers got caught in the middle? Or how about coming face to face with a whole menagerie of rare and vulnerable species who magically appear before you? All our shows are carefully selected to ensure you can get the most value out of an excursion to Riverside. They all come with curriculum links, and many have additional resources to help you increase your students’ understanding of what they have seen. Access for all students is important to us, so please ask us about our ticket subsidy program or our access and inclusion initiatives to ensure you and your students have the best experience possible. And if there is anything else we can do to help facilitate your students’ creative journeys, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. I look forward to seeing you at the theatre!
AMY MATTHEWS Producer – Education, Youth and Families
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HOW TO BOOK BOOK EARLY! We do our best to accommodate everyone but shows fill fast. Additional performances are not always possible.
1. RESERVE YOUR TICKETS ONLINE To reserve your booking, visit the relevant event page and select the ‘Education Bookings’ button under the calendar. Click through to confirm the number of tickets, and prices and follow the prompts to complete the reservation.
2. AUTOMATIC INVOICE WILL BE SENT You’ll receive an invoice for the non-refundable deposit amount of 25% with a ‘payment due’ date. It is your responsibility to forward the tax invoice to your Financial Officer for payment by the due date. Once you have paid your deposit, your booking is secure and your numbers can be amended (depending on availability), up until full payment has been received.
3. FINAL PAYMENT Full payment is required 4 weeks prior to the performance date or your booking will be automatically released. We accept the below payment methods: EDConnect If you are making payment through the Department of Education and Communities Finance Shared Services (EDConnect), your payment request must be submitted via EDConnect four weeks prior to the ‘payment due’ date. Please email the Education Booking Officer your purchase order number so that we can add it to your invoice and forward it to EDConnect. Please include Riverside Theatres’ Vendor ID (100 118 187) when submitting your payment request. Credit card/School P-card To pay online by credit card/School P-card, please use the ‘Pay in full’ link on your invoice or contact the Box Office on 02 8839 3399 with your ‘booking reference number’. Direct Deposit (EFT) Your tax invoice will contain instructions for Direct Deposit (EFT) payment. If we do not receive payment OR proof of your Department of Education purchase order we have the right to cancel your booking and your deposit will be forfeited. There are no refunds or decrease in numbers once the final payment has been received. An increase of numbers is possible after the final payment day but is subject to availability. Please note, all education bookings made within 4 school weeks of a performance date must be paid in full within 1 week of confirmation and are final. There are no refunds or changes to numbers or dates on these bookings. All bookings will incur a transaction fee.
4. FINAL INFORMATION SENT TO SCHOOLS Prior to your visit, we will send you detailed information via email to ensure you have a hassle-free excursion. This will include updating you on any possible changes to running times or more detailed information as it emerges from the rehearsal process.
5. FINAL INFORMATION SENT TO SCHOOLS If you have concerns about meeting the terms and conditions, please email education_riverside@cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au or call our Box Office 02 8839 3399. For more information visit riversideparramatta.com.au/education
TICKET SUBSIDY PROGRAM
Riverside Theatres has a limited amount of funding available to subsidise schools from low socio-economic communities. To request further information about subsidies and an application please contact education_riverside@cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au 4
CONTENTS HOW TO BOOK ACCESS AT RIVERSIDE
4 6
TERM 1
SHOW NAME
YEARS
PAGE
22 February
Yuldea
Years 7 – 12
9
29 February – 1 March
Agapi & Other Kinds of Love
Years 10 – 12
10
6 – 8 March
Wit
Years 9 – 12
11
26 – 28 March
The Gruffalo’s Child
Years K – 4
12
4 – 5 April
Ada, Asmin and the Analytical Engine
Years 5 – 9
13
10 – 12 April
Medea
Years 8 – 12
14
TERM 2
SHOW NAME
YEARS
PAGE
3 May
Fourteen
Years 10 – 12
16
8 – 17 May
Romeo and Juliet
Years 7 – 12
17
13 May
The Crucible Symposium
Year 12
18
13 May
Othello Symposium
Years 10 – 12
19
10 May
None of Us
Years 9 – 12
20
21 – 22 May
The Peasant Prince
Years 2 – 6
21
29 – 31 May
Incredibilia
Years K – 4
22
3 – 7 June, 14 June
Sharp Short Theatre
Years 3 – 12
23
14 June
Highway of Lost Hearts
Years 10 – 12
24
20 – 21 June
Arc
Years 3 – 8
25
26 – 28 June
How to Catch a Star
Years K – 2
26
TERM 3
SHOW NAME
YEARS
PAGE
From 25 July
Karim
Years 11 – 12
28
15 – 16 August
Gold
Years K – 6
29
25 – 27 September
Imagine Live
Years K – 4
30
TERM 4
SHOW NAME
YEARS
PAGE
23 October
Yoga Play
Years 10 – 12
32
WORKSHOPS UPSTAGE CLUB BACKSTAGE TOURS
33 34 34
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ACCESS AT RIVERSIDE Riverside Theatres is committed to providing access to our educational arts experiences for all students and teachers. This includes students and teachers with disability and specific needs.
ACCESS POINTS Access points are indicators that let you know aspects of a production that may provide groups with a higher level of engagement related to their needs. There are 5 access points. These are marked on each production page.
IP
Interactive Performance: High levels of audience interaction creating a less formal environment and requiring less ‘passive’ attention by audience members.
LE
Language: Easy The text or dialogue used in this production is limited or simple.
LN
Language: None No text or dialogue is used in this performance.
M
Music: This production has a strong music focus.
VC
Visual Cues: This production has strong visual cues giving students a different reference point for comprehension of the narrative or subject matter.
SPECIFIC ACCESS We believe it is important to ensure all students have the opportunity to participate and enjoy going to the theatre. Specific accessible performances include Auslan Interpreted, Audio Described and Relaxed Performances. However, if you have a group requiring any of these access options for an event other than the ones we have on offer, please let us know at the time of booking and we will endeavour to accommodate your request.
WHEELCHAIR AND LEVEL ACCESS Riverside offers level access and space for wheelchairs in all venues. Please let us know if you need level access or a wheelchair space at the time of your booking.
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HEARING SYSTEM Riverside has state-of-the-art hearing systems in all three theatres to assist patrons who are hearing impaired. Patrons can choose from a single ear earpiece, a neck loop attached to their own hearing aid or their own headphones, to amplify the sound from the stage. This system is adaptable for people with all types of hearing loss. Please indicate on your booking form if your group requires access to the headsets.
AUDIO DESCRIPTION Select performances are audio described for the benefit of blind or low vision patrons by providing a narration that provides detailed information and descriptions of the visual elements of a performance. This includes actions, expressions, gestures, sequences, costumes, and scenery. AD is relayed via a free headset and receiver linked to the FM radio system. This service is provided based on demand. If you require it for your group, please indicate this on your booking form. Due to the preparation involved, a minimum of 8 weeks’ notice is required.
TACTILE (SENSORY) TOURS Held prior to a performance, Tactile Tours are an access initiative arranged specifically for students or teachers who are blind or have low vision. Students and teachers are introduced to the stage space and some of the physical elements of the set, props and costumes in the show. Tours are by prior arrangement and are particularly relevant for productions being audio described.
AUSLAN INTERPRETATION Some productions are selected to be interpreted using Australian Sign Language (Auslan). This provides an opportunity for students and teachers who are Deaf to access the show. The aural cues that are essential to the storytelling and the theatrical experience are translated into sign language. Auslan interpreters are discreetly positioned for comfortable viewing by Deaf audiences. This service is provided based on demand. If you require it for your group, please indicate this on your booking form. Due to the preparation involved, a minimum of 8 weeks notice is required.
RELAXED PERFORMANCES Select performances throughout the year are provided as relaxed performances. These are sensory friendly performances where the perceived ‘rules’ of theatre are modified to allow patrons with Autism and other specific needs to enjoy the performance in a welcoming environment. Modifications will differ depending on the show, but can include: •
The house lights being dimmed, but not turned all the way down;
•
The understanding that patrons may come and go from the theatre as needed;
•
Elements of the show that might include loud noises or sudden bright lights being toned down or removed.
SOCIAL STORIES, MEET & GREETS AND SPECIAL SEATING REQUESTS Upon request, we may be able to provide other services other than those listed, to help make your visit more comfortable. These could include arranging a meet your seat or meet and greet with the cast, to allow your group time to become familiar with their surroundings. With notification, arrangements can be made for you to be seated early or near to an exit as an additional support measure. Download a copy of our social stories for the theatres at Riverside here: riversideparramatta.com.au/your-visit/accessibility-inclusion Please contact our Education team with your access requirements or requests once you have completed the online booking.
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TERM 1 Yuldea Photo Credit: Kate Longley
DANCE
SUITABLE FOR
YEARS 7 – 12
Photo credit: Daniel Boud
RIVERSIDE THEATRES AND BANGARRA DANCE THEATRE PRESENTS
YULDEA DATES & TIMES
Yuldea awakens the earth and sky worlds to tell the story of the Aṉangu people of the Great Victorian Desert.
DURATION
This major new work explores the moment traditional life collided with the industrial ambition of a growing nation. In 1917, the two halves of the Transcontinental Railway met at the precious water soak on the edge of the Nullarbor, Yuldi Kapi.
Thu 22 Feb at 12pm 1 hour
PRICE
$31 per student/teacher $15 Wilay Tickets are available for First Nations students (capped at 100 tickets). Contact us at time of booking for more info.
CURRICULUM LINKS
Dance, Drama, Aboriginal Studies, Music Full links available at riversideparramatta.com.au/ education
Yuldea features original music by Leon Rodgers with featured songs by multi-award-winning duo Electric Fields. Designers Elizabeth Gadsby (Set), Jennifer Irwin (Costume) and Karen Norris (Lighting) create a desert world on stage. FYI this production contains elevated sound levels, strobe, haze, smoke effects and voices of people who have passed
ACCESS POINTS
LN
M
VC
MORE INFO & BOOKINGS
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SPOKEN WORD
SUITABLE FOR
YEARS 10 – 12
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS A VYVA ENTERTAINMENT PRODUCTION
AGAPI & OTHER KINDS OF LOVE BY LUKA LESSON DATES & TIMES
The Ancient Greek types of love are revealed via timeless love stories told in rap and spoken word with live musicians.
Fri 1 Mar at 11am
Based on Plato's The Symposium, Agapi & Other Kinds of Love begins with Socrates telling a banquet of friends everything he learned from a mysterious lover named: Diotima. The gods then take the audience on a journey – collapsing time and space to arrive in modern day Athens, where the two reincarnations of the Ancient lovers fall in love (again) in the midst of a riot.
Thu 29 Feb at 11am
DURATION
1 hour and 10 minutes plus Q&A
PRICE
$27 per student/teacher
CURRICULUM LINKS
Drama, Music, English, Ancient History Full links available at riversideparramatta.com.au/ education
Luka Lesson's reputation as one of Australia's best storytellers shines as he then takes us on a journey through the kinds of love: Eros, Filia, Filoxenia, Philautia, Storgi, Pragma and the ultimate: Agapi. Self-love, erotic love, familial love and more all collide with statues of Aphrodite, Molotov cocktails and the Parthenon's steps. Equal parts rap concert, poetic musical & classical history lesson, Agapi & Other Kinds of Love shows us how love prevails despite the trials and tribulations of the ages. FYI this production contains coarse language – can be removed for school groups
ACCESS POINTS
M MORE INFO & BOOKINGS 10
VC
THEATRE
SUITABLE FOR
YEARS 9 – 12
Photo credit: Daniel Regan
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS A CLOCK & SPIEL PRODUCTION
WIT
BY MARGARET EDSON DIRECTED BY HELEN TONKIN DATES & TIMES
“Nothing but a breath – a comma – separates life from life everlasting. It is very simple really.”
Thu 7 Mar at 11am
Vivian Bearing is 50, in the prime of her life, highly respected and at the height of a stellar academic career. She's a fiercely rational academic with a passion for poetry. And she has just weeks to live.
Wed 6 Mar at 11am Fri 8 Mar at 11am
DURATION
1 hour and 30 minutes plus Q&A
PRICE
$34 per student/teacher
CURRICULUM LINKS
Advanced English, Drama Full links are available at riversideparramatta.com.au/ education
Wit isn't a play about death, it's a play about life. All of life, and everything that makes us who we are. As Vivian comes to terms with who she is; mind, body and soul, we're left to ponder – can we conquer death, or at least our fear of it, by the way we live our lives? Winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, Wit is not primarily a play about cancer, nor about the wit of John Donne – it is a play about the balance between head and heart; a play about life, death and the significance of a semicolon. “Every once in a while a play comes along that bonds people together in extraordinary ways. The play isn't a tearful lecture on how to die; it's a dry-eyed lesson on how to live-with simplicity and kindness.” The Boston Globe. FYI this production contains adult themes of death and cancer and may contain strobe lighting
MORE INFO & BOOKINGS 11
THEATRE
SUITABLE FOR
YEARS K–4
CDP PRESENT TALL STORIES' ADAPTATION OF
THE GRUFFALO'S CHILD
ADAPTED FROM THE AWARD-WINNING PICTURE BOOK BY JULIA DONALDSON AND AXEL SCHEFFLER PUBLISHED BY MACMILLAN CHILDREN'S BOOKS DATES & TIMES
The Gruffalo said that no gruffalo should Ever set foot in the deep dark wood...
Wed 27 Mar at 10:15am
If you loved The Gruffalo, don't miss the sequel, which returns following previous sell-out Australian tours – now in a new West End production!
Tue 26 Mar at 10:15am & 12:30pm Wed 27 Mar at 12:30pm Thu 28 Mar at 10:15am
DURATION
55 minutes
PRICE
$31 per student/teacher
CURRICULUM LINKS
English, Creative Arts Music, Drama Full links available at riversideparramatta.com.au/ education
Join the Gruffalo’s Child on her adventurous mission in this magical musical adaptation of the much-loved picture book. One wild and windy night the Gruffalo’s Child ignores her father’s warnings about the Big Bad Mouse and tiptoes out into the deep dark wood. After all, the Big Bad Mouse doesn’t really exist... does he? The team behind The Gruffalo, Room on the Broom and The 13-, 26-, 52-, 78- & 91-Storey Treehouses return with The Gruffalo's Child, bringing together physical theatre, music and puppetry to deliver songs, laughs and scary fun for your students.
ACCESS POINTS
LE
MORE INFO & BOOKINGS 12
VC
THEATRE/ PUPPETRY
SUITABLE FOR
YEARS 5–9
Photo credit: Sarah Kreigler
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS LEMONY S PUPPET THEATRE AND LAUREN EISINGER PRODUCTIONS
ADA, ASMIN & THE ANALYTICAL ENGINE WRITTEN BY SARAH KRIEGLER AND DENIZ ASLAN DIRECTED BY SARAH KRIEGLER DATES AND TIMES
Thu 4 Apr at 10:15am & 12:30pm Fri 5 Apr at 10:15am & 12:30pm
DURATION 1 hour
PRICE
$27 per student/teacher
CURRICULUM LINKS
English, Creative Arts Drama, History Full links available at riversideparramatta.com.au/ education
Asmin, a newly-arrived Turkish refugee is struggling with remote learning when a magical cat (and the wonders of cyberspace) lead her to Victorian-era mathematician Ada Lovelace. Together, connected across time, they find commonality in numbers and philosophy, and inspiration to follow their dreams. In this imagined place, shaped by real events, we explore how far we have come in education rights for girls, how far we have to go, and the world-altering shifts that occur when we empower young women to reach their full potential. Made in collaboration with math teacher and Turkish refugee, Bilge Aslan, the story combines the real-life experiences of girls worldwide who have been denied an education with the story of Ada Lovelace and her world-altering inventions. It’s an inspiring new adventure told through the beautiful magical realism for which Lemony S Puppet Theatre are renowned.
ACCESS POINTS
LE
VC
MORE INFO & BOOKINGS 13
THEATRE
SUITABLE FOR
YEARS 8 – 12
Photo credit: Saffron Jenson
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS A SHOCK THERAPY ARTS PRODUCTION
MEDEA
BY EURIPIDES, DEVISED AND DIRECTED BY SAM FOSTER AND HAYDEN JONES DATES & TIMES
This stylised MEDEA combines Greek Tragedy, Epic and Physical Theatre and to deliver a gripping experience with a thumping soundtrack.
Thu 11 Apr at 10:30am & 1pm
Award-winning Queensland performance makers Shock Therapy Arts put their signature touch on this timely Greek Classic. One of the great plays of the Western Canon, this psychological thriller follows the story of Medea, as the pressures of court politics, family, and discrimination within the patriarchy start to unravel her world. Themes that are, unfortunately, just as relevant today.
Wed 10 Apr at 7pm Fri 12 Apr at 10:30am & 1pm
DURATION
1 hour plus Q&A
PRICE
$31 per student/teacher
CURRICULUM LINKS
Drama, English, History, Ancient History Full links available at riversideparramatta.com.au/ education
Medea is a former barbarian princess who left her world behind for the man she loves. When she learns that her husband Jason, leader of the Argonauts, is planning to leave her to marry Glauce, the Greek Princess of Corinth, her love and passion turns to blind rage. With her place in Greek society already under threat, Medea is then banished into exile. This devastating betrayal drives Medea to plot a shocking and calculated revenge on Jason, and take back control in a society ruled by men.
ACCESS POINTS
VC
MORE INFO & BOOKINGS Shock Therapy Arts is proudly supported by the City of Gold Coast.
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TERM 2
15
How to Catch a Star Photo Credit: Maria Boyadgis
THEATRE
SUITABLE FOR
YEARS 10 – 12
Photo credit: Dylan Evans
RIVERSIDE THEATRES AND SHAKE & STIR THEATRE CO PRESENT
FOURTEEN
ADAPTED BY SHAKE & STIR WITH SHANNON MOLLOY DATES & TIMES
The year is 1999 and Shannon has a secret.
DURATION
Shannon Molloy is a year 9 student at an all-boys rugby-mad Catholic school in regional Queensland, with a secret that no one can ever find out. Shannon is gay.
Fri 3 May at 11am 1 hour 40 minutes plus Q&A
PRICE
$27 per student/teacher
CURRICULUM LINKS
English, Drama Full links available at riversideparramatta.com.au/ education
Based on the best-selling memoir by award-winning journalist Shannon Molloy, Fourteen is the inspirational true story of growing up gay in central Queensland, transformed into a powerful must-see theatre production by nationally acclaimed Shake & Stir Theatre Co. Set to a nostalgic mixtape of 90s bangers from all your faves, from Shania Twain to The Spice Girls, Fourteen addresses the trials and tribulations of growing up with honesty, humour, and heart. Equal parts uplifting and heart wrenching, we follow Shannon in a year of self-discovery set amidst a backdrop of torment, bullying and betrayal – not just at the hands of his peers, but by the adults who were meant to protect him. This moving coming-of-age memoir about adversity and tragedy is also a story of resilience, hope and hilarity – thanks to the love of a group of close-knit friends, a fiercely protective family, an extraordinary mother and... S Club 7. So press play on your discman, lose yourself in a pumping 90s pop remix and take a technicoloured trip back to your teens. This is Fourteen. FYI this play contains strong coarse language, mature themes, simulated violence, depictions of self-harm and suicide ideation, and sexual abuse. It also contains strobe lighting, theatrical smoke effects, and the use of stage cigarettes.
MORE INFO & BOOKINGS 16
This project is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland. Originally co-produced with QPAC and Brisbane Festival.
THEATRE
SUITABLE FOR
YEARS 7 – 12
Photo credit: Kate Williams
SPORT FOR JOVE PRESENTS
ROMEO AND JULIET BY WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE DIRECTED BY DAMIEN RYAN DATES & TIMES
Wed 8 May at 11:30am Thu 9 May at 10:30am Fri 10 May at 10:30am Sat 11 May at 7pm Tue 14 May at 11:30am Wed 15 May at 10:30am Thu 16 May at 10:30am Fri 17 May at 10:30am
DURATION
2 hours plus Q&A
PRICE
$33 per student/teacher
CURRICULUM LINKS
Drama, English Full links available at riversideparramatta.com.au/ education
It Takes a Village to kill a child This much celebrated production of this incredible play for young audiences from Artistic Director, Damien Ryan. The existential crisis facing our world today has triggered a deafening chorus of ‘How dare you!’, screamed from the heart of our planet’s youth. And it’s not just about climate issues. What can children teach us in their struggle to be heard? Sport for Jove’s furiously energetic new production of Romeo & Juliet dazzled and moved thousands of students over the past two years, characterised by a true vision of today’s youth – some of Australia’s most exciting young actors of Shakespeare taking on Juliet, Romeo, Paris, Mercutio, Benvolio, Balthazar – surrounded by an extraordinary cast of experienced players, gives this production an authenticity and honest rawness, danger and the genuine awkwardness of youth. Our production takes on the spirit of a filthy Italian opera, driven by love and heat, fights and fevers of the mind, and of course, by Shakespeare’s soaring poetry. We are carried to backcountry Verona, a profoundly insular town, trapped in cycles of tradition and vendetta, staring out at the future with moral pollution at its heart. Only its children’s courage to express themselves will bring change. With the mad blood stirring, two young lovers meet and set in motion the most iconic love story of all time, that of Juliet and her Romeo. A thrilling introduction to Shakespeare for young audiences and such an important work for students to experience live.
MORE INFO & BOOKINGS 17
THEATRE
SUITABLE FOR
YEAR 12
SPORT FOR JOVE PRESENTS
THE CRUCIBLE SYMPOSIUM BY ARTHUR MILLER PRESENTED BY DAMIEN RYAN DATES & TIMES
Mon 13 May at 10am
DURATION
2 hours 30 minutes (including performance, analysis, discussion and brief interval)
PRICE
$33 per student/teacher
CURRICULUM LINKS
Drama, English Full links available at riversideparramatta.com.au/ education
The Crucible, Arthur Miller's parable of mass hysteria, is a portrait of the ordinary evils latent in any society, of mindless, hysterical persecution through ignorance, fear of 'otherness', and our capacity to serve ourselves above all others, making it one of the world's most transcendent and important stories, in any age. Damien Ryan's intensive and detailed performance symposium on the play offers a rich opportunity for students to meet the characters, look beneath the play – at its language, characters, form, and theatricality – and discuss the big ideas with professional actors who have a long relationship with the play. What does it mean to us now? Come and join the conversation. After all, we can stand back from these puritanical thinkers and feel safe from their ignorant, outdated superstitions and prejudices, but Miller's very successful point is that we just can't. The belief systems and modes of persecution might change, but the ignorance and willingness to hurt each other do not. The Crucible illustrates these things at personal, familial, judicial, and political levels, and asks actors to give everything they have to tell it.
MORE INFO & BOOKINGS 18
THEATRE
SUITABLE FOR
YEARS 10 – 12
Photo credit: Seiya Taguchi
SPORT FOR JOVE PRESENTS
OTHELLO SYMPOSIUM BY WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE DELIVERED BY DAMIEN RYAN DATES & TIMES
Mon 13 May at 1:30pm
A new, must-see symposium for Stage 5 & 6 students
2 hours 30 minutes (including performance, analysis, discussion and brief interval)
Damien Ryan has worked on Othello for nearly 30 years. Don't miss this opportunity to join him and a group of exceptional actors as they unlock the story, characters, dramatic structure, themes, and theatricality of this powerful Shakespearean tragedy through scenework and analysis live on stage at Seymour Centre.
PRICE
FYI this production contains themes of domestic violence
DURATION
$33 per student/teacher
CURRICULUM LINKS
Drama, English Full links available at riversideparramatta.com.au/ education
MORE INFO & BOOKINGS 19
DANCE
SUITABLE FOR
YEARS 9 – 12
FORM DANCE PROJECTS AND RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENT LEARN THE REPERTOIRE, SEE THE SHOW
NONE OF US
BY DUTI DANCE COMPANY, CHOREOGRAPHED BY MATHEW MIZYED DATES & TIMES
Fri 10 May Workshop 10am Performance and Q&A 12:30pm
DURATION
1 hour performance (plus 30min Q&A) 1 hour workshop
PRICE
$30 per student for show and Q&A $40 per student for workshop, show and Q&A
CURRICULUM LINKS
Dance Full links available at riversideparramatta.com.au/ education
A new work by DUTI Dance Company Learn the Repertoire, See the Show offers dance students a unique opportunity to learn repertoire from the show followed by a matinee performance and a post-show Q&A. None Of Us questions the concept of ownership, identity and connection to place. Choreographed by DUTI Dance Company director Mathew Mizyed, the work showcases some of Sydney’s leading versatile movement artists, Rachell Dade, Andrew Huynh and Chantelle Landayan. The choreography is a blend of soft and strong, influenced by elements of contemporary, jazz and experimental movement which is fostered organically through Mathew’s creative process. Led by choreographer Mathew Mizyed, the workshop will begin with a 15 warm up, followed by learning a section of choreography performed in None Of Us and finishing with the opportunity to perform the choreography in small groups.
ACCESS POINTS
LN
MORE INFO & BOOKINGS 20
M
THEATRE/ DANCE
SUITABLE FOR Photo credit: Heidrun Lohr. Photos from 2016 national tour feature performers Jenevieve Chang, Jonathan Chan, John Gomez Goodway and Edric Hong.
YEARS 2–6
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS A MONKEY BAA THEATRE COMPANY PRODUCTION
THE PEASANT PRINCE BASED ON THE BOOK BY LI CUNXIN, ILLUSTRATED BY ANNE SPUDVILAS ADAPTED FOR THE STAGE BY EVA DI CESARE, SANDIE ELDRIDGE AND TIM MCGARRY DATES & TIMES
The award winning production The Peasant Prince, the children’s version of Li Cunxin’s iconic autobiography Mao’s Last Dancer.
Wed 22 May at 10:15am
The Peasant Prince is an extraordinary production of a remarkable story – of a peasant boy turned dance giant. It will inspire and enthral young audiences.
Tue 21 May at 10:15am & 12:30pm Wed 22 May at 12:30pm
DURATION
1 hour plus Q&A
PRICE
$31 per student/teacher
CURRICULUM LINKS
Drama, English, Dance Full links available at riversideparramatta.com.au/ education
A remarkable true story of a 10-year-old peasant boy’s journey from impoverished rural China to the international dance scene. This is a story of courage, resilience and unwavering hope. Li, a 10-year old peasant boy is plucked from his village in rural China and sent to a ballet academy in the big city. He leaves everything and everyone he loves, including his family. Over years of gruelling training, this boy transforms from an impoverished peasant to a giant of the international dance scene. Li’s courage, resilience and unwavering hope for a better life for himself and his family makes The Peasant Prince a story to ignite our own aspirations to be the best person we can be. Audiences will be captivated by this very personal story, truly a 20th century fairy tale.
ACCESS POINTS
VC
MORE INFO & BOOKINGS 21
THEATRE
SUITABLE FOR
YEARS K–4
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS A KIM CARPENTER PRODUCTION
INCREDIBILIA BY LIBBY HATHORN AND KIM CARPENTER DATES & TIMES
Wed 29 May at 10:15am & 12:30pm Thu 30 May at 10:15am Thu 30 May at 12:30pm Fri 31 May at 11am
Incredibilia invites you to come on board for an imaginative journey over the moon through too-hot deserts, exotic gardens & spooky cities with two adventurous best friends. Incredibilia reminds us all of our loving families, bestest friends and the value of home. It’s all really INCREDIBLE!
DURATION
Incredibilia is a joyous combination of 20 stories by celebrated children’s author, Libby Hathorn (from “Over The Moon” to “Way Home”).
PRICE
INCREDIBILIA has been adapted for the stage by acclaimed theatremaker, Kim Carpenter (of Theatre of Image) with music by Peter Kennard’s extraordinary one-man band.
50 minutes plus Q&A $27 per student/teacher
CURRICULUM LINKS
Art, Drama, English and Music Full links available at riversideparramatta.com.au/ education
Incredibilia celebrates the imagination through inventive storytelling, the joy of creative play with music, song and an extraordinary collection of 101 curious objects, magically brought to life by multi-skilled performers. “With Kim Carpenter we enter a realm that dissolves barriers of age, background and experience into a common world of wonder and excitement.” The Daily Telegraph
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MORE INFO & BOOKINGS Presented by arrangement with The State Library of NSW. Original Artwork © by Kim Carpenter All Rights reserved.
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COMPETITION
SUITABLE FOR
YEARS 3 – 12
Photo Credit: Grant Leslie
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS
SHARP SHORT THEATRE SCHOOLS’ SHORT PLAY COMPETITION DATES & TIMES
Regional Heat Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre Wed 29 May Riverside Heats 3 – 7 Jun at 7:30pm Final Fri 14 Jun at 7:30pm
DURATION
2 hours 30 minutes (approximately, including 20 minute interval)
PRICE
Registration Fee $50 per entry Heats $18 per student/teacher Final $23 per student/teacher
CURRICULUM LINKS
Creative Arts - Drama, Drama, English, English – Standard, Advanced and Extension 2 Full links available at riversideparramatta.com.au/ education
Sharp Short Theatre is Riverside Theatres’ popular youth short play competition. Now entering its 9th year, and expanding to include its first regional heat, Sharp Short Theatre has grown into a much-loved annual highlight for both Riverside Theatres and for many schools and students. Students 18 years and under must be the writers, directors, and performers of all the works which will be performed in a heat under the guidance of professional mentors and technicians. The best pieces, as selected by a panel of industry professionals, then go on to perform at the final where students are awarded prizes in categories including best script, best direction, best performance, and best overall production. Prizes are designed to hone the students’ talents and include masterclasses, theatre tickets, exclusive behind the scenes opportunities and more! Plays must be 10 minutes or under and can come from any theatrical genre, giving the students a chance to play to their strengths, speak their minds, and let their imaginations run wild! Come along and support our bright future stars as they shine live on the Riverside stage! Wanting to enter? Registrations close Friday 3rd May – but register your interest early with our education team as heat spots do fill up fast!
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THEATRE
SUITABLE FOR
YEARS 10 – 12
Photo credit: Phil Blatch
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS A LINGUA FRANCA PRODUCTION
HIGHWAY OF LOST HEARTS BY MARY ANNE BUTLER WITH ORIGINAL LIVE MUSIC BY SMITH & JONES DATES & TIMES
A woman. A dog. A campervan. And 4,500kms of wide open road.
DURATION
Mot wakes up one morning to find that her heart is missing from her chest. She can breathe; she has a pulse—but she feels… nothing.
Fri 14 Jun at 11am 1 hour 10 minutes plus Q&A
PRICE
$29 per student/teacher
CURRICULUM LINKS
Drama, English, Music Full links available at riversideparramatta.com.au/ education
So, she decides to go and look for it. With her dog enlisted as co-pilot, Mot heads down the Highway of Lost Hearts: into the deepest core of the Australian outback—navigating red dirt landscapes, fire and flood, brittle dryness, vast salt lakes, age-old mountains and murky waters filled with lost souls. An allegory for a country that’s lost its heart, Highway of Lost Hearts by Mary Anne Butler is half gritty road journey, half magic realism and all heart. It leaves you pondering the question: when your heart goes missing, what lengths will you go to in order to find it again? Bathurst’s own Lingua Franca in collaboration with BMEC present this truly regional story, in a brand-new production starring theatrical powerhouse Kate Smith, with original live music by Central West icons Smith & Jones.
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Highway of Lost Hearts was a co-production between Lingua Franca and Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre’s Local Stages program. Highway of Lost Hearts is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW
THEATRE/ PUPPETRY
SUITABLE FOR
YEARS 3–8
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS AN ERTH VISUAL & PHYSICAL INC PRODUCTION
ARC DATES & TIMES
Thu 20 Jun at 10am & 1pm Fri 21 Jun at 10am & 1pm
DURATION
55 minutes plus Q&A
PRICE
$27 per student/teacher
CURRICULUM LINKS
English, Drama, Science and Technology Full links available at riversideparramatta.com.au/ education
Showcasing exquisite puppetry, an enigmatic host, audience interaction and a world of rare and exotic animals, ARC is a profound experience that embraces the natural world and the creatures that cohabit this place we call Earth. ARC presents intimate, magical encounters with rare and vulnerable species, raising important questions about our collective and individual relationship with nature and loss. Renowned as innovators of physical and visual theatre, for the past three decades Erth’s body of work has explored the depths of the past. With ARC, they look unblinkingly to the future, as this menagerie of animals transforms the stage before your very eyes. FYI this production contains theatrical fog/smoke effects and loud noise
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MUSIC
SUITABLE FOR
YEARS K–2
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS AN AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER ORCHESTRA PRODUCTION
HOW TO CATCH A STAR
BASED ON THE BOOK BY OLIVER JEFFERS ADAPTED FOR THE STAGE BY SANDRA ELDRIDGE WITH ORIGINAL MUSIC BY ELENA KATS - CHERNIN DATES & TIMES
Wed 26 Jun at 10:30am & 12pm Thu 27 Jun at 10:30am Fri 28 Jun at 10:30am & 12pm
Featuring exquisite new music by Elena Kats-Chernin, How to Catch a Star will leave audiences of all ages filled with hope and optimism.
DURATION
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Thu 27 Jun at 12pm
45 minutes including Q&A $31 per student/teacher
CURRICULUM LINKS
Drama, English, Music Full links available at riversideparramatta.com.au/ education
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Based on the book by international best-selling author Oliver Jeffers, this magical tale about reaching for dreams will take you on a journey from awe and wonder, through perseverance to triumph.
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Gold Photo Credit: Regula Anick McDowell
THEATRE
SUITABLE FOR
YEARS 11 – 12
Photo Credit: Kathy Luu
NATIONAL THEATRE OF PARRAMATTA PRESENTS
KARIM
BY JAMES ELAZZI DIRECTED BY JAMES ELAZZI AND SHANE ANTHONY DATES & TIMES
Karim and his best friend, Layla, watch trains coming and going from the local station and dream of a life with a better future.
DURATION
On the rural outskirts of South West Sydney, Karim and his Dad, Joe, work as cucumber farmers. At night, they search trash for treasures to make ends meet.
From Thu 25 Jul Approximately 2 hours no interval
PRICE
Price per student/teacher confirmed on application
CURRICULUM LINKS
Drama, English Full links available at riversideparramatta.com.au/ education
When Karim and Joe are evicted, their neighbour Abdul provides refuge. At his house, Karim discovers an oud, a traditional Middle Eastern instrument. Inspired by the beauty of its sound, Karim secretly begins playing the instrument, realising it might be the key to a new destiny. Karim explores families, duty and generational divides. Catch this bold new work by celebrated playwright James Elazzi, a three-time nominee playwright at the NSW Premier’s Literary Award (Lady Tabouli, Queen Fatima and Son of Byblos). Karim is performed by Youssef Sabat.
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DANCE
SUITABLE FOR
YEARS K–6
Photo Credit: Regula Anick McDowell
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS A SIMONNE SMILES PRODUCTION
GOLD
CHOREOGRAPHER SIMONNE SMILES AND COMPOSER ME-LEE HAY DATES & TIMES
A magical ballet of friendship and love set in the Australian bush during the historic gold rush.
Fri 16 Aug at 10:15am
Set in Bendigo in the Gold Rush era of 1850s, Gold tells of encounters between three immigrants: Sheena, a Scottish lass who loves to paint, Alwyn, an English lad seeking his fortune in gold and Loong, a Chinese provisioner. On their journey they meet magical and mythical characters based on Australian flora and fauna, some of which trick them and attempt to allure them, and some of which save them.
Thu 15 Aug at 10:15am & 12:30pm
DURATION
1 hour including Q&A
PRICE
$25 per student/teacher
CURRICULUM LINKS
Dance, Geography, History, Drama Full links available at riversideparramatta.com.au/ education
Told entirely through the dance form of ballet, Gold is a journey through both Australia’s early migrant history and Aboriginal mythology, in an accessible, non-verbal mode of performance that will delight and engage. A short talk and question and answer session will follow each performance.
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THEATRE/MUSIC
SUITABLE FOR
YEARS K–4
RIVERSIDE THEATRES PRESENTS A NCM AND JOLYON JAMES PRODUCTION CO-PRODUCED BY GEELONG ARTS CENTRE
IMAGINE LIVE
BASED ON THE BOOK BY ALISON LESTER CREATED BY JOLYON JAMES DATES & TIMES
Wed 25 Sep at 10:15am & 12:30pm Thu 26 Sep at 10:15am & 12:30pm Fri 27 Sep at 10:15am & 12:30pm
DURATION
1 hour plus Q&A
PRICE
$31 per student/teacher
CURRICULUM LINKS
English, Creative Arts Music, Drama, Geography Full links available at riversideparramatta.com.au/ education
Alison Lester’s iconic best seller, brought to life. This show is a joyous celebration of the natural world that will follow you home and live in your heart for years to come. The Helpmann award winning team from Robot Song led by Jolyon James have translated Lester’s iconic book into a 60 min live interactive musical performance for children and families. Supported by a stunning original musical score, performers play and sing through the pages, while digital puppetry allows the illustrations to travel seamlessly between real & animated worlds. Beautiful, entertaining and meaningful, IMAGINE LIVE is a celebration of the profound transformative power of creativity. The show is a reminder that connection, imagination and play are essential ingredients for life! The environmental themes invite us to look beyond our backyards into a shared and richly beautiful world together. Imagine has been a certified bestseller since its 1989 publication. Lester’s body of work is instantly recognisable with a reach that is both geographic & intergenerational.
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Highway of Lost Hearts Photo Credit Phil Blatch
THEATRE
SUITABLE FOR
YEARS 10 – 12
Photo Credit: Kathy Luu
NATIONAL THEATRE OF PARRAMATTA & LA BOITE THEATRE PRESENT
YOGA PLAY
BY DIPIKA GUHA DIRECTED BY MINA MORITA DATES & TIMES
A scathing and sassy takedown of cultural appropriation, exploitation, consumerism, fat shaming and yoga pants at any cost.
DURATION
Yoga is zen right? Then why is everyone at the world’s most exclusive athleisure wear company so stressed out?
PRICE
Jojomon have been cancelled after the BBC run an exposé about their sweatshops. Joan, the new CEO, is determined to turn this around and help unite their loyal customers, “The Family”. There’s only one way forward: hire a yogi and bring him from India. What could go wrong?
Wed 23 Oct at 11am 2 hours plus Q&A $31 per student/teacher
CURRICULUM LINKS
Drama, English Full links available at riversideparramatta.com.au/ education
Riverside’s National Theatre of Parramatta and La Boite Theatre are partnering to bring the Australian premiere production of Dipika Guha’s hilarious play, with renowned international director, Mina Morita. La Boite Theatre, Brisbane Season: 7 - 23 November
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BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE... WORKSHOPS ON DEMAND Looking for a performing arts related workshop for your students? Choose the workshops that work for you in our 2024 Workshops on Demand program! We can cater a workshop to your students’ needs in a wide range of subject matters and specialties. Choose from the list below or propose something new! We’ll provide an industry professional to facilitate and the venue at a date and time that suits you and all you need to do is turn up. Examples Include: Technical workshops – Lighting, Audio, Staging and Stage Management, Vision, Technical Design. Design - Costume, Set Acting - Solo Performance, Devising work, Acting Styles (Lecoq, Suzuki etc), Commedia Dell’Arte, Greek Drama. Dance - Composition and Creation, Various styles (Contemporary, Hip Hop, Ballet etc). Music – Composition, Classical, Contemporary, Improvised Music, Musical Theatre. Other creatives – Writing, Directing, Film-making.
VENUE: Workshops will take place in person at Riverside Theatres, Parramatta.
BOOKINGS AND PRICING: Contact education_riverside@cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au to design your workshop and for a quote.
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MORE WAYS TO GET INVOLVED UPSTAGE CLUB Riverside’s invaluable participatory program for young people aged 15 – 22 years in Years 11 – 12 or at a Tertiary training institution returns in 2024. Upstage Club offers a limited number of successful applicants access to a number of performances, in conjunction with some exclusive workshops led by professional theatre makers, throughout the year. Participants become a tight-knit community of young performance lovers, whilst extending their understanding of theatre making and appreciation in a supportive, collaborative and invigorating environment. See our website to register riversideparramatta.com.au/get-involved
BACKSTAGE TOURS Share the magic of theatre with your students by booking a Backstage Tour as an add-on to your show or workshop. Tours of Riverside increase understanding of how a professional theatre works. Backstage tours visit areas not usually seen by the public and can be adapted to suit the learning needs of students and special interest groups. All tours must be booked in advance. Please note: Tours may be restricted depending on the productions we have running on the day. Price with show $5 per student. Without show $10 per student (Service fee of $50). Maximum capacity 25 students, plus teachers. If you would like to book a Backstage Tour, please contact us on education_riverside@cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au
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THANKS TO OUR SUPPORTERS Riverside Theatres is proudly supported by City of Parramatta Council
PARTNER (GOVERNMENT)
RIVERSIDE ADVISORY COMMITTEE Cr Ange Humphries Cr Cameron MacLean Cr Georgina Valjak Jon Greig Keiasha Naidoo Dr Robert Lang Vyvienne Abla Marwa Abouzeid Derrin Brown Cate Cunningham Jackie Emery John Moore
LEADERSHIP TEAM Director – Craig McMaster Acting Marketing & Communications Team Leader – Samantha Attard Operations Manager – Mike Brew Ticketing & Box Office – Dave Fili Executive Producer, National Theatre of Parramatta – Joanne Kee Business Manager – Tanya Sampson Program Manager – Catherine Swallow
MAJOR PARTNER
EDUCATION TEAM Producer (Education, Youth and Families) – Amy Matthews Education Booking Officer – Abby Wardleworth
RIVERSIDE THEATRES WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE RIVERSIDE EDUCATORS PANEL Sharon Bower Independent Education Consultant Anna Evans Illawong Public School Danielle Evans Blue Mountains Grammar School Carolyn Gandouin Bradfield Senior College Rebecca Kershaw Mount Druitt Public School Letitia McCubbin Cumberland High School Iris McGill Sydney Catholic Schools Arts Team Angela Morosin Barker College Rachel North University of Sydney Anthony Quelch Marsden High School Dane Ropa Northern Beaches Secondary College Catherine Simpson Independent Education Consultant Henrietta Stathopoulos CEO Sydney - CaSPA Ruth Smith Amity College
Brochure Design and Artwork leadinghand.com.au Details in this brochure are correct at time of printing. Riverside reserves the right to add, withdraw and substitute artists and vary the programme and prices should the necessity arise. Please note that some performances may contain smoke, strobe lighting, loud noise, coarse language and nudity. Where known we will indicate this in our website and in the theatre foyer at the time of the performance. Curriculum links are a guide only as to what outcomes and content our events might link to. They are not exhaustive and are not intended to imply that the outcomes can be fully satisfied by attending one of our events. They are to be used at the teacher’s discretion. ABN 49907174773
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RIVERSIDEPARRAMATTA.COM.AU/EDUCATION Box Office 02 8839 3399 Education Bookings education_riverside@cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au Mon – Fri, 9am – 5pm Cnr Church and Market Streets Parramatta NSW 2150 PO Box 3636 Parramatta NSW 2124