- This event has passed.
TAXITHI
3 August, 2016 - 14 August, 2016
fortyfivedownstairs presents
Taxithi
3 – 14 August 2016
★★★★ ‘A moving tribute to the courage and resilience of migrants, and an open road into the Greek soul…’ The Age
SHOW DETAILS:
3 – 14 August 2016
opening: Wednesday 3 August
duration: 80 mins
times:
Tuesday to Saturday 7.30pm
Sunday 5pm
ticket prices: $35 – $45
Following a sell-out, critically acclaimed season this March/April, fortyfivedownstairs is thrilled to announce a return season of Helen Yotis Patterson’s Taxithi – An Australian Odyssey.
The untold stories of women who migrated from Greece to Australia in the 1950s and 60s. Filled with the poignant memories and passionate music of their homeland, these true stories resonate with the strength of the women who made new lives, creating an indelible impression on a faraway country.
Writer and singer Helen Yotis Patterson is joined by Maria Mercedes (Sunset Boulevard, Love Never Dies and Master Class) and Artemis Ioannides (ABC’s A Beautiful Lie) in this spell binding and moving story, which is unique and yet universal.
Directed by Petra Kalive
Music director Andrew Patterson
Bouzouki soloist Jacob Papadopoulos
‘A seamless hybrid of story and song…’ Cameron Woodhead, The Age
‘The three voices…are enchanting’ Chris Boyd, The Australian
‘A magnificent and joyous celebration’ Patricia Di Risio, Stage Whispers
John Bowles, Live Theatre UK: August 3, 2016
‘The director, Petra Kalive, has managed to allow this piece to reveal itself, on one hand as a personal message, while at the same time, text is illuminated with sepia images, floating lovingly above the action, as if our thoughts are in communion. The audience were transfixed, not just by the crystal clear performances by these talented actresses; but by the honesty with which every element is gently, and yet powerful, performed.’
Chris Boyd, The Australian: March 8, 2016
‘(Helen’s) script – and Petra Kalive’s seamless production – effortlessly conveys the meaning of the words to Greek and English speakers alike. The three voices, individually and collectively, are enchanting. Mercede’s five dramatic soprano and Ioannides’ light and smoky voice flesh out the ensemble beautifully.’
Cameron Woodhead, The Age: March 4, 2016
★★★★
‘A moving tribute to the courage and resilience of migrants, and an open road into the Greek soul’
‘Director Petra Kalive’s sensitive direction sweeps you along on complex currents of nostalgia, letting these migrant stories speak for themselves.’
‘It may have special significance to Australians with Greek heritage, but all of us should be edified and entertained by this deeply affecting window into the migrant experience.’
Patricia Di Risio, Stage Whispers
‘This is a gripping performance that will have your toes tapping and pull at your heartstrings all at the same time. Helen Yotis Patterson has written a truly exceptional piece of theatre and found true kindred spirits in her co-performers.’
‘The overall effect is truly astonishing and easily transports the audience to places both near and far. The play is not afraid to venture into dark spaces but it is mainly a magnificent and joyous celebration of an important chapter in Australian migrant history.’
Ticket Prices:
Full: $45
Seniors: $40
Groups 8+: $40 each
Concession: $35
Concessions:
Pensioners/Full-time students/MEAA members