Fringe: Immigration Is A Thing

Writer and director Vlady T describes the show as: “An exploration of the issues of migration and multiculturalism through a Shakespeare parody and Butoh [a form of Japanese dance] physicality… with witches eating Happy Meals”. As an immigrant himself, Vlady says, “King In Exile was written to explore my own experience migrating to Australia and grappling with my own identity as a theatre maker.” 

Vlady firmly believes that “migration is a crucially prominent matter in the Australian society”, and he was unsatisfied with the lack of presence that this topic had within theatre. “It is time there was a play that told the story of migration without niceties and political correctness and prompted Australian audiences to contemplate the hardships, mental struggles and conflicts immigrants go through.” 

When asked what makes this production different, Vlady replies, “While the subject matter of the play is very ‘real’ the show itself is structured in a very absurdist non-naturalist way. The characters constantly break the fourth wall and address the audience to share their stories [and] express their angst.” But before you get too bogged down in seriousness, it also features a more light-hearted side. “The play has very serious motifs, yet it also has an entertaining side, with humour present throughout (admittedly often sardonic).”

Another component that adds to the uniqueness of this performance is the cast. Vlady describes the team as “a wonderfully diverse group of ethnicities, cities and countries of origin, ages and genders. Each performer adds their own bit of magic to the show”. 

Vlady says of the Melbourne Fringe Festival, “The variety on offer makes producing shows a very competitive enterprise.” Consequently, he notes that, “Nice Productions have to bring our A-game. Which we always do!” 

King In Exile
24 — 27 Sep, Mebourne Fringe Festival, Gasworks, The Clover Club