The Character In Sugarland Are 'Breathtakingly Eloquent'

Want to see theatre that focuses on the lives of teens in remote Australia? Sugarland is definitely your scene.    

Presented by Barking Gecko Theatre Company, Sugarland by Australian Theatre for Young People (ATYP), follows a group of teenagers and their social worker.

Written by Rachael Coopes and Wayne Blair in 2011, the play is inspired by their residencies in Katherine in the Northern Territory.

Co-director Fraser Corfield says, “I love that Sugarland presents characters we simply don't see on Australia's professional theatre stage. These characters are raw, honest, at times painfully inarticulate and, at others, breathtakingly eloquent.”

Rather than the sugar-coated teen tales of Hollywood, the narrative addresses contemporary issues, striving to communicate with today’s youth in a way that is authentic, while realistically representing the experiences young Aussies can face.

“Sugarland touches on profound current themes like the safety of our children and the identity of regional communities in modern Australia,” says Corfield. “Ultimately, it’s about finding the universal truths that unite us, whatever your background, whatever your problems. Sugarland asks important questions about the country we live in.”

Obviously the production isn’t only for a younger audience. The writing aims to give all ages an insight into young Australia, a place that might be unfamiliar to older people.

While the teenage characters presented onstage have different life experiences (the play contains coarse language, drug use, and themes that might be challenging), music is one thing that links them. Not surprising: for most people, regardless of age, music and youth are indelibly linked in memory.

Perhaps the authentic feel of the material is because the playwrights spent months getting to know people during their residencies, and as a result the narrative doesn’t condescend, while also promoting conversation; expect to laugh, and maybe cry.

Corfield believes this is one of those rare theatre experiences that set a new direction in our national industry. “In this case that direction involves a teenage identity that is cultural diverse but completely Australian. The events in these young people's lives are unbelievable but common, deeply moving and profoundly political.”

The play runs during National Reconciliation Week (May 27-June 3). Two shows are scheduled for Saturday, May 28, and the Barking Gecko Theatre Company takes over the foyer of Studio Underground on this date so young people who catch the performance can chill with others while enjoying food and music.

Sugarland runs May 27-30 at Studio Underground, State Theatre Centre. Tickets available through Ticketek.com.au. Please note the production is 14+.

Originally published in X-Press Magazine