'Inspired by a story from Stephen’s grandmother from the Ngugi/Nunukul/Moondjan people of Minjerribah (Stradbroke Island), Baleen Moondjan celebrates First Nations’ relationships between baleen whales and communities’ totemic systems. The signature elements that have defined Stephen Page’s career are all present in this work with dramatic storytelling, striking choreography and haunting live music integrated into a stunningly designed world from Jacob Nash.
'Set amongst giant whale bones on the sandy shores of Glenelg, Baleen Moondjan tells the story of a proud Elder, a curious granddaughter and the day a baleen whale comes close to shore. The whale is there to catch Granny Gindara’s spirit and carry it out to sea – a farewell, a celebration, a poignant start to a final journey. Baleen Moondjan recognises the intertwining relationships between all living creatures and our connection to earth, sky and sea.'
Source: Production blurb.
Presented by Adelaide Festival at Adelaide Festival, 28 February - 2 March 2024 (world premiere). Performed on site at Glenelg.
Director: Stephen Page.
Set Designer: Jacob Nash.
Costume Designer: Jennifer Irwin.
Lighting Designer: Damien Cooper.
Composer & Sound Designer: Steve Francis.
Producer: Jo Dyer.
Cast: Elaine Crombie, Zipporah Corser-Anu, Taj Jamieson, Michael Laurie, DOBBY (Rhyan Clapham), Beau Dean Riley Smith, Tara Gower, Gusta Mara, Kaine Sultan, Rika Hamaguchi, and Kaine Sultan.