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From the narratives spun in pages and ink, tales once whispered now burst forth in magnificent and vibrant performances upon the stage, captivating audiences with their vivid transformations.
Join Brisbane Festival during this splendid celebration of authors as they bring their stories to life on stage. From the poignant and heartfelt narratives of 'Brisbane Love' to the chilling retellings of beloved bedtime tales, immerse yourself in a spectrum of emotions and experiences crafted by talented storytellers.
10 – 29 Sep
Trent Dalton’s Love Stories
Love Stories is a captivating collection of real life love stories gathered by the author, Trent Dalton. He's a renowned Australian Journalist who is wildly known for his book 'Boy Swallows Universe'. In this collection, he's taken the unconventional approach by spending two months on a busy street corner in Brisbane city with a typewriter and a sign that read, "Sentimental writer collecting love stories."
In this heartwarming and moving compilation, Dalton shares tales of love in its many forms, from romantic and familial love to the deep bonds of friendship. The stories range from humorous to heartbreaking, illustrating the diverse experiences of love in modern Australia. Through these narratives, Dalton captures the essence of human connection and the powerful emotions that love evokes.
The book is celebrated for its authenticity and emotional depth, as Dalton's empathetic approach allowed people to open up and share their most intimate and personal experiences. "Love Stories" is not just a book but a celebration of love's enduring and universal nature, providing readers with a touching reminder of the beauty and complexity of human relationships.
4 – 5 Sep
Eucalyptus – The Opera
Jonathan Mills’ new opera is based on the Miles Franklin Award-winning novel Eucalyptus, by Murray Bail. With the novel gaining readership beyond Australia, this prestigious literary marvel has been translated across multiple languages for overseas buyers.
Eucalyptus is an ageless story of love and longing, about a daughter and a father – Ellen and Holland. Ellen’s overprotective father has created a safe haven from the world – a forest of eucalypts. But is the forest a sanctuary? Or is Ellen, like Rapunzel, imprisoned? Ellen encounters a Stranger amongst her father’s trees – a storyteller with enchanting tales of far-away lands.
In this dappled landscape lurks both beauty and wonder. The score is mysterious and colourful, with moments of dramatic intensity and hushed beauty. The libretto by Meredith Oakes is poetic and spare.
31 Aug – 22 Sep
GRIMM
GRIMM, the latest tour de force from Shake & Stir Theatre Co beckons you into a world where fairytales are reimagined with a profound intensity. Be warned, these bedtime stories may cause nightmares…
Within darkened corridors and haunting landscapes, Snow White, Cinderella, and Little Red Riding Hood emerge from the shadows, as the truth behind their stories — warts and all — boil and bubble to the surface.
From the company behind the award-winning stage spectacles Frankenstein, Jane Eyre and A Christmas Carol comes this bold adaption of tales from the Brothers Grimm, in a bewitching theatre experience.
Adapted by Nelle Lee, directed by Dan Evans and costume designed by Australian fashion icon Paul McCann, expect a lavish, loud, and lucid night.
12 – 22 Sep
Fancy Long Legs
Fancy Long Legs is a brand-new glittery and vibrant musical adventure for children, based on a new picture book by Brisbane’s international tinsel and craft icon, Rachel Burke.
In this enchanting tale, Fancy the spider adores creating but finds it challenging to maintain focus on her weaving. With the encouragement of her friends, she embarks on a captivating journey of self-discovery, discovering her unique style and crafting something truly unique.
Rachel Burke's unique artistic flair is evident throughout the book, making it a visual treat. Her background in fashion and design influences the colorful and creative presentation, making "Fancy Long Legs" a standout in children's literature. The book not only entertains but also encourages children to embrace their uniqueness and view the world with curiosity and joy.
