IN THE IMAGE OF GOD HE CREATED HIM; MALE AND FEMALE HE CREATED THEM. GENESIS 1:27
FROM THE BEGINNINGS OF MODERN EUROPEAN THEATRE – STORIES OF THE BEGINNING, AT THE BEGINNING OF A NEW GROUP OF THEATRE MAKERS.
In the spirit of the mediaeval Mystery plays, a team of Australian writers and directors present the stories from the big dawn; the Creation, the Fall, the Expulsion from Eden, Cain and Abel, Noah’s Ark.
The Mysteries: Genesis is the first Main Stage appearance for The Residents. The three-part promenade production is performed in a specially re-configured Wharf 2 designed by Alice Babidge, drawing inspiration from the old courtyards, bear-baiting pits, cloisters and coaching inns of the medieval world.
Creation out of chaos, chaos out of paradise, grace within chaos, pride, confusion, and a simple offering of hope. Not the full cycle of Mystery plays; just a beginning…
Please note: this production contains nudity, some very strong language and scenes that may offend some patrons.
Running time: 3 hours, including 2 intervals
Reviews
"more of an experience than a traditional play.... The Mysteries is compelling, raw theatre.... a rare chance to experience something outside the box." - The Sun-Herald
"****...the most bold and exciting thing I have seen this year..." - Brag
"...wonderfully ambitious.... an invigorating experience..." The Daily Telegraph
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"My husband and I saw The Mysteries Genesis yesterday and we were enthralled from beginning to end. The "Residents" are a fantastic group who did a wonderful job. Being able to stand downstairs among the actors was a privilege because you could see their concentration and skill up close. To see Wharf 2 transformed into such a different state was also very interesting. All in all this has been a wonderful season, we feel it has been one of the best for a while with such diverse material and we eagerly await next season as it looks as though it will be fabulous as well." - Lisa
"I dare say STC will receive some flak for this production of Mysteries Genesis but I just wanted to register my absolute approval of a wonderful, thoughtful and ingenious production. As a long standing subscriber to STC and therefore not so youthful patron I thought this performance was truly daring and amazing. You are to be congratulated for the courage of your convictions. I’m still thinking about the amazing performances and stunningly simple set design. Well done and thank you." - Lynne
"We saw it last night - it was fantasic - tremendous acting, great lighting, direction and the music was fun. It was great being 'amongst' it. A great first play for The Residents - no doubt they've got to know each other very well performing this!" - Bruce
Whilst the whole performance is powerful and engaging, the Promenade Act adds a real sense of the viceral. As we bore witness to Eve's grief, I was moved to enbrace her and only thought better of it when I noticed there were other people around. Their faces reflected my own compassion for her weakness and loss. Her grief, in turn, moved me to tears. Thank you for re-engaging me with these archetypal myths. - Steven
Congratulations to all involved in this production. We saw it last night and enjoyed The Residents, the different format for Wharf 2 and for the audience. Walking amongst and therefore being part of the action was particulary exciting. Well done. - Sue & Phil
I loved every minute of this 3 hour production. Thank you STC for your brave approach to theatre... more please. - Victor
