The People of the Soil project is a dynamic outreach program of performance and workshop activity in conjunction with regional performances of Burnt.
In 2009 Burnt was researched and developed with communities in order that the play be an accurate and meaningful reflection of life for families who live in parts of Australia that are coping with prolonged dryness (click here for details on the production of Burnt).
From the beginning STC Ed planned that this production tour into communities whose story it is and build a range of experiences around the themes and issues brought to life through the play.
In 2010 STC Ed created a program of engaging activities available in conjunction with the performance to considerably support the discussions and reflections that the play brings to the surface for its audiences. This touring package program is entitled the People of the Soil Project.
The People of the Soil Project continues to tour in 2011 with regional performances and workshops in: Armidale, Young, Leeton, Corowa, Albury and more.
The People of the Soil Project has two phases of experience for each location the production of Burnt tours to:
The Performance
Burnt is performed for schools and for the broader community audiences.
Post-Performance
After seeing a performance of Burnt students and teachers participate in drama workshops in which students create their own version of scenes from the play, creatively exploring and theatricalising their town’s experiences.
STC Ed will then capture these local stories in a variety of creative mediums and share them with other regional communities. This would take the form of filming their responses to the play and exchanging these performances across communities via STC Ed’s website.
For further information on the People of the Soil Project in 2011 please contact Helen Hristofski, Education Manager, Sydney Theatre Company on 02 9250 1726 or hhristofski@sydneytheatre.com.au
BURNT IN PRINT
Zeal Theatre's Burnt which is the centrepiece of the People of the Soil Project has been published as part of The Zeal Collection available for purchase from currency press - CLICK HERE.
The People of the Soil Project was originally presented in partnership with University of Technology, Sydney Health Psychology Unit and NSW Department of Education and Training.
