Tag Archives: Don Bridges

‘Hello there, we’ve been waiting for you’

Created by Samara Hersch and Louris van de Geer

Theatre production satirises US TV game shows in ACMI film studio

Inspired by a real-life town in New Mexcio, USA, that changed its name to that of a television game show called Truth or Consequences in the 1950’s, Hello there, we’re been waiting for you is a theatre production that investigates the politics of identity, history and happiness.

Presented at ACMI from Wednesday 30 April – Sunday 11 May, 2014, and utilising the centre’s camera technologies to create a game show feel, Hello There We’ve Been Waiting For You is written by Louris van de Geer and directed by Samara Hersch.

Set within the elusive confines of a television studio in the lead up to the town’s annual May Fiesta, Hello There examines one’s quest to stand out in the world. Through the use of a live video feed and television tricks, this work deconstructs the art of construction and asks how we universally seek to be significant and examines the ways in which we re-invent stories, play with truth and find happiness.

In May 2013, Louris van de Geer visited the town Truth or Consequences and participated in the May Fiesta. She has built strong connections with the community and believes passionately in sharing the intriguing and complex stories that have kept this town on the map.

“I was hooked on this project from the moment Louris casually described a remarkable and obscure town in New Mexico who have been caught in a pre-reality TV obsession for over half a century,” said Emily Sexton, Next Wave Artistic Director. “In Louris and Samara’s capable hands we’ve fallen in love with these townsfolk who have willingly chosen fantasy over the more mundane American reality. Sitting in the live studio audience at ACMI, the full colour vision of this super talented female duo comes to life through a terrific ensemble – including the totally hilarious Genevieve Giuffre.”

Collaborating artists include: Louris van de Geer, Samara Hersch, Aaron Orzech, Genevieve Giuffre, Susie Dee, Don BridgesLucy ThornettEugyeene Teh, James Paul and Amelia Lever-Davidson.

‘Every Grain of Sand’

Powerfully emotive, Every Grain of Sand is currently playing at Chapel off Chapel, but you better be quick as this season finishes next Sunday. 

My dear friend Emily Humphries who I know to be an exceptional and extraordinary poet, painter and thinker illuminated me to this play and it’s multi-faceted and talented playwright Neil Cole and director Don Bridges. Both have very rich pedigree careers in Australian theatre, film, television and politics. Both currently invest their time and energies, among other pursuits, in passing on their expertise and life experience as educators.

Even though my friend knew little of the theme of the play other than being staged around sports and politics she assured me that anything Don Bridges is working with has to be above and beyond good. Yet, again she was spot on…

This story is about life on life’s terms when four hardworking citizens unite for a common cause. We witness the rise of political ambition morphing into addictive desire for the spot light and the need to win; combined with unabated capitalism, manipulation and socialist ideology. But most compelling and emotionally charged is the deep support and compassion that carries these individuals through their daily trials and tributions. I was literally brought to tears by the authentic and often diverting performances by this amazing cast.

Presented by Melbourne Jewish Theatre Trust

Written by Neil Cole
Directed by Don Bridges

Starring Chris BroadstockClare PickeringCameron McKenzie and Kirsten Snowden

Composer Warren Wills Lighting Design Boyd Gordon 

BUY TICKETS

6 March – 23 March
Times: Tuesday – Saturday 8pm, Sunday 6:30pm
Tickets: $35 (+ Transaction Fee)
Seating: General Admission. Please make sure you arrive a minimum of 15 minutes prior to the performance start time.Latecomers will not be permitted.
Please Note: If you require wheelchair access please call our Box Office on 03 8290 7000.
Duration: 90 mins (no interval)

By Kerrie Pacholli aka Pation Pics
http://pationpics.com