The Secret River
‘A stunning and shattering piece of theatre.’
Sunday Telegraph (Australia)
A deeply moving and unflinching journey into Australia’s dark history. Adapted from Kate Grenville’s acclaimed novel, this multi-award-winning production from Sydney Theatre Company tells the story of two families divided by culture and land.
William Thornhill arrives in New South Wales a convict from the slums of London. Upon earning his pardon he discovers that this new world offers something he didn’t dare dream of: a place to call his own. But as he plants a crop and lays claim to the soil on the banks of the Hawkesbury River, he finds that this land is not his to take. Its ancient custodians are the Dharug people.
‘Astonishingly beautiful… deeply affecting. Essential viewing.’
Sun Herald
Neil Armfield directs a large ensemble cast, with live music by composer Iain Grandage. This hauntingly poetic production was conceived in collaboration with Aboriginal artists and is performed in Dharug as well as English.
This production is playing at the Edinburgh International Festival from 2 – 11 August.
Talks and events
Director Neil Armfield on The Secret River Wed 28 Aug, 5.45pm
The Secret River 2019 tour is supported by Ian Narev & Frances Allan, Gretel Packer and commissioning patrons Catriona Mordant AM & Simon Mordant AM and David Gonski AC & Orli Wargon OAM.
This project has been assisted by the Australian Government’s Major Festivals Initiative, managed by the Australia Council its arts funding and advisory body, in association with the Confederation of Australian International Arts Festivals Inc., Sydney Festival, Perth International Arts Festival and The Centenary of Canberra
