Archived

Dance
Nation

Written by Clare Barron
Directed by Imara Savage

  • Venue Upstairs Theatre
  • Dates CANCELLED

    *** Given the unprecedented global health crisis we currently face, Belvoir has made the difficult but necessary decision to cancel all remaining performances of Dance Nation. ***

    Although our venue’s capacity is less than 500, we are being cautious and following the government’s directive to restrict public gatherings. The health and safety of our audience, staff and actors is always our first priority. For more information click here.***

    Co-Produced with State Theatre Company South Australia

    Somewhere in America, away from the bright lights, a group of young teen girls prepare for the most important event of their lives – a dance show contest. But all the anxieties and confusions of the adult world come sashaying on stage, revealing a dog-eat-dog drama. The girls are played by adult women, as if they’re reliving past agonies and triumphs.

    This is a comic play of memory and feminist power, and a subtly subversive exploration of the time of life when the demons get in.

    This came out of America and has taken the world by storm. Theatrically playful, unapologetically ratbaggy, with a great ensemble of adult performers playing the teen dancers, this one promises to be as intriguing as it is entertaining. – Eamon Flack, Artistic Director

    “The ride for the audience is …extreme, confronting, hilarious, outrageous, thrilling and shocking” – The Adelaide Advertiser
    “Funny, ferocious and closely observed” – The Australia
    ★★★★ – The Guardian UK
    ★★★★1/2 – “Wild, funny, ferocious drama” – Time Out

    Dance Nation is presented by special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc., a Concord Theatricals Company.

    Team

    Set & Costume Designer Jonathon Oxlade
    Lighting Designer Alexander Berlage
    Composer Luke Smiles
    Sound Designer Andrew Howard
    Choreographer Larissa McGowan
    Accent Coach Jennifer Innes
    Assistant Director Clara Solly-Slade
    Stage Manager Gabrielle Hornhardt
    Assistant Stage Manager Brooke Kiss

    Cast

    Mitchell Butel
    Elena Carapetis 

    Emma Harvie
    Chika Ikogwe
    Yvette Lee
    Rebecca Massey
    Amber McMahon
    Tara Morice
    Tim Overton

    Videos


    Rehearsal images by Sia Duff
    • Running Times and Content Warnings

      Running time: Approx. 105 mins (no interval)

      Content warnings: Strobe lighting, smoke haze and theatrical effects, fake blood, frequent strong language, sexual references.

      Should you wish to speak to speak to a member of staff regarding running times, content warnings or any other show related queries, our box office can be contacted on 02 9699 3444.

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