A former Lismore joinery is about to test what else can be made in a timber factory, with Northern Rivers artists turning its industrial spaces into stages, screens and installations.
Live Edge, presented by NORPA on November 13 and 14, will bring physical theatre, circus, film, live music and performance art into The Joinery, the company’s developing creative home in Hampton Street.
The building itself is part of the brief. Artists were invited to devise original work inspired by its industrial spaces, rather than arrive with a show designed for a conventional theatre.
Announcing the initiative in July, NORPA artistic director Julian Louis said it would give local artists room to experiment.
‘It creates a supportive platform for local artists to take risks, develop new forms, and connect their ideas with audiences in a live context.’
The inaugural program includes Frauke Huhn and Cye Wood, HOTMESS, Kirilly Dawn, LIVESTOCK, Tongue and Groove, and Sue Connor and Rowena Kempton.
Audiences will move between different parts of the building, with opportunities to sit between periods of walking and standing. Food and a pop-up bar will be available.
Doors open at 6.30pm, with performances from 7.30pm to 9.30pm, including an interval. Friday’s program includes a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony with Uncle Gilbert at 7.15pm.
Tickets are offered at $35, $50 or $65, allowing patrons to choose according to their circumstances, plus a $5.50 booking fee per transaction.
The event is for ages 16 and over and includes nudity, adult themes and flashing lights. One upstairs work is accessible only by stairs, with a livestream available downstairs.
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