Blue
16 May – 1 June 2024
La Boite Roundhouse Theatre, Kelvin Grove
A poignant exploration of the complexities of growing up, written and performed by Logie and AACTA award winner Thomas Weatherall, Blue debuts at La Boite Theatre following its successful premiere season at Belvoir Street Theatre as part of Sydney Festival 2023.
Developed for the stage through the Balnaves Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Fellowship and Belvoir, Blue is a work of deeply personal fiction, drawing inspiration from Weatherall’s own experiences as a young adult. The touching one-person play by the accomplished Kamilaroi actor and dancer invites audiences to delve deep into the heart of a young man’s journey as he navigates the challenges of grief, loss, and finding his place in the world.
The audience is introduced to Mark, alone in his apartment, on a quiet ordinary morning, trying to make sense of his world and navigate a way forward. When Mark moved out of home for the first time, his mum started writing him letters – just checking in, staying in touch, keeping a gentle hold on her son. Until one letter brought news no one wants to hear. Mark must work out how to go on with the day, his studies, and the fragility of living. He needs someone to hear his story and the story of his family.
Thomas describes bringing Blue to Brisbane as a homecoming. “I grew up going to La Boite all the time as a teenager,” Thomas says. “In fact, I saw my first play at La Boite, and then a few years later I began writing Blue, only a few blocks away from the theatre while living in Brisbane. It feels very special not only bringing it back to my hometown but also to La Boite.”
“It’s a brutal and challenging work at times, but also at the core of it is a story of hope and love. Sharing this story with audiences has been truly life-changing and life-affirming,” he added. “I can’t wait for Queensland audiences to see it.”
Directed by award-winning dancer and choreographer and Bangarra Dance Theatre alumnus, Deborah Brown, the physicality interwoven through Weatherall’s performance in Blue brings added depth to the storytelling.
Artistic Director Courtney Stewart described the work as a poignant exploration of the human experience. “Thomas and Deborah have worked together to skilfully intertwine themes of loss, mental well-being, masculinity and resilience, into this compelling and beautiful narrative,” Courtney said. “We are honoured to bring this captivating new work to La Boite and Queensland audiences and look forward to welcoming Thomas and the team to the Roundhouse in May.”
Blue is recommended for audiences aged 15+ and contains references to suicide, the use of coarse language, theatrical haze and herbal cigarettes.
For ticketing and further information, visit the La Boite website
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