Facing Up is a theatre work focussing on Prime Ministerial statements and policies concerning Australia’s Indigenous people juxtaposed with a history of First Nations protest. From federation to the present.
Facing Up features First Nations actors beside a white fella playing all 31 Prime Ministers. The content focuses on government statements and laws concerning Indigenous people. The missions, removal of children, Native Title, Sorry speech, it is all there alongside a record of the Indigenous protest movement including references to the Aboriginal Progressive Association, petitions, walk offs, the tent embassy, Mabo and more.
This work address highly topical community concerns. It tells of the highlights and lowlights of Indigenous protest and struggle since 1901. The general knowledge in the community of this history is minimal. It is historical and political truth telling as told through socially relevant theatre. Its theme is an important one for us all. Facing Up presents information that can be difficult to fathom and talk about.
Most performances involve a Q and A session after the show for audiences and cast members to further discuss some of the many issues that arise from the truth telling of this history.
Through Regional Arts Victoria, Facing Up be touring schools in 2023 and be supported by educational resource materials representing both Indigenous and non-Indigenous perspectives for classroom use.
In May, 2023, Facing Up will perform a two-week season in Melbourne to coincide with the Yirramboi Festival.
A professionally shot film of the production is available.
Facing Up will continue to galvanise community spirit and curiosity assisting with social understanding of our shared history. As the Uluru statement says it is time to move forward together.