Local artist returns to the river
Riverina local Angela French will premiere her contemporary performance work ‘Return to the River’’ at The Tin Shed Theatre in Cootamundra on the 15th of March. The performance is an exploration of the impact of artificial and natural environments on the psyche, and the powerful forces of connection to place.
Produced by Murmuration, a professional performance company based in Western Sydney, and presented by The Arts Centre Cootamundra, Angela’s work aims to encourage audience members to consider the effect contrasting environments, scale and space have on the mind and spirit.
Angela expresses that this is “a contemporary arts experience, not just a dance show”. Angela brings together elements of theatre, dance, music, visual art, projection, set and costume design to share her story and experiences of travelling the globe..
‘Return to the River’ was first conceived in Angela’s 32nd floor apartment in Dubai as she grappled with the effect the artificial environment was having on her wellbeing. Having grown up in Narrandera, Angela’s playground was the banks of the Murrumbidgee river, a far cry from the artificially engineered landscape of Dubai.
As part of the production’s season Angela will host an Arts & Education Workshop designed to enhance the local communities creative skills. “Contemporary performance making is more than learning the correct step and latest dance moves,” says Angela. “My workshop will encourage creative play, story telling, improvisation and exploration of each participants individual responses’. Angela hopes to encourage participants to consider combining artforms whilst building on their skills and talents.
Dance and performance have been a driving force in Angela’s life since age 11 when she left Narrandera to attend a prestigious performing arts college in Sydney. Now a professionally trained classical ballet dancer, experienced choreographer, solo contemporary performer, international artist and a new mum, Angela brings to the stage years of experience and a genuine love for performing.
The work gives insight into Angela’s life long love of the Murrumbidgee River and how her experiences abroad led to a deep longing for home and a return to the region.
PERFORMANCE DETAILS: Return to the River … a longing for home.
Venue: The Tin Shed Theatre, The Arts Centre Cootamundra, 18-20 Wallendoon Street.
Date: Friday 15 March at 7:00pm, Saturday 16 March at 3:00pm and 7:00pm
Tickets: Standard $25, Concession $17. Group discounts available.
Recommend Age 12+ The work contains abstract content and is presented in a durational performance style. Parental guidance is advised.
Arts & Education Workshop: Saturday 16 March from 12:30pm to 2:00pm. $30 covers workshop and performance.
‘Return to the River’ is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW and Ausdance NSW and has been produced by Murmuration in partnership with The Arts Centre Cootamundra.
