THEATRE 180 brings classic Western Australian stories to the stage with two exciting and ground-breaking theatrical events
Two gripping new productions will provide theatre audiences with a powerful fusion of great Fremantle Press books, live theatre and cinema. Based on Dianne Wolfer’s award-winning quartet of picture books for older readers, The Lighthouse Girl Saga will open at Albany’s Princess Royal Theatre (Albany Entertainment Centre) on 23 February before playing in Busselton on 1 March, with more tour dates to follow soon. Then, back by popular demand, A.B. Facey’s classic tale A Fortunate Life will tour regionally before it opens at Windsor Cinemas in Perth in May.
Theatre 180 describes The Lighthouse Girl Saga as a sweeping story of ordinary people living in extraordinary times: a tale of courage, resilience, hope and love. The bold adaptation by two of WA’s leading and award-winning playwrights – Jenny Davis, OAM, and Hellie Turner – blends Lighthouse Girl, Light Horse Boy, In the Lamplight and The Last Light Horse into the most compelling theatrical event of our times.
Theatre 180 Artistic Director Stuart Halusz said it was the company’s most ambitious CineStage production to date. Halusz said, ‘The surging narrative of Dianne Wolfer’s Lighthouse series of books has found its way into the Australian psyche, from the desks of primary school students to teenagers and adults alike, the interconnected stories offer something for everyone.’ Halusz said it was a love story embedded in the Anzac legacy and juxtaposed against the futility of war.
Halusz and Davis are also responsible for the adaptation of A Fortunate Life which continues to be in demand after more than 100 performances to date. This striking collaboration between artists of stage and screen honours the trials and triumphs of A.B Facey, whose extraordinary experiences as a bushman, sportsman, railway ganger, a WWI soldier and a 20th century family man are sure to connect with multiple generations of theatregoers.
Theatre 180 evolved from Agelink Theatre, a 25-year success story creating theatre from oral histories founded by Jenny Davis OAM. The company focuses on great stories, well told that bring together generations and communities.
Explore their forthcoming productions and dates at theatre180.com.au/whats-on/
