The Long Way Home has Perth Premiere
Image – Lisa Tomasetti
The Long Way Home, a new play by Daniel Keene, will end its three month national tour in Perth. The production will play a limited two nights season at His Majesty’s Theatre on Friday April 11th and Saturday April 12th – just in time for the lead up to Anzac Day.
Featuring actual soldiers on stage alongside professional actors, The Long Way Home conveys the personal stories of Australian servicemen and women who have been wounded, injured or become ill during Australian Defence Force operations in Iraq, Afghanistan and East Timor. Ranging in rank from Private to Brigadier, twelve soldiers perform alongside professional actors to create a unique theatre experience echoing Australia’s recent experience of war.
Fifteen servicemen and women participated in an intensive research and development program with The Sydney Theatre Company during 2013. Sharing their experiences with director Stephen Rayne, playwright Daniel Keene and professional actors, the team worked to create this new work. The Long Way Home gives audiences a unique insight into the challenges these men and women, and their families, have confronted, presenting stories of physical and psychological injury .
“Their stories will resonate with all service personnel and provide families and the Australian community with a unique insight into our war experiences. The Long Way Home is a candid account that will inspire and educate audiences.” said General David Hurley, AC, DSC,Chief of the Defence Force.
Acclaimed Australian Actor Jack Thompson, one of the official Patrons for the production (along with General Hurley and Corporal Ben Roberts-Smith) commented that “making this play has been a powerful experience for everyone involved and I have looked forward to watching these brave men and women of the Australian Defence Force go on this journey together … I sincerely hope that this unique and important project will be as rewarding for those who choose to share their stories as I’m sure it will be for audiences throughout this country.”
With Stephen Rayne and Daniel Keene, the creative team includes Set and Costume Designer Renée Mulder, Lighting Designer Damien Cooper and Sound Designer Steve Francis.
The Long Way Home
11 & 12 April 2014
His Majesty’s Theatre
Tickets through Ticketek
