Sydney Theatre Company - Wharf Theatres

A new work by revered Australian playwright Jane Harrison (The Visitors, Stolen) is always one to be celebrated. Her works tackle and investigate both the past and present existence of First Nations communities, weaving a contemporary lens through which she aims to reconcile, teach and honour. The newest Sydney Theatre Company-commissioned work, Bennelong in London, is no different. Here, Harrison dissects the historical narrative of Woollarawarre Bennelong, a man who found himself in an unprecedented moment in history. At the centre of the work is a complex individual whose historical narrative has been documented by the colonisers and whose history can only truly be known by his actions. This is a play that is ultimately a conversation between generations, focusing on identity, representation and the responsibility that comes with one’s story. What is the premise of Bennelong in London? Sebastian (Guy Simon – Stolen, Holding the Man) is a contemporary First Nations actor preparing to audition for the role of Woollarawarre Bennelong (Googoorewon Knox – Hamilton) in an unnamed project. It’s clear from the outset that he can’t quite get a grip on the portrayal of one of the most significant figures in the early years of invasion as he shoots numerous takes on a precariously propped phone. Harrison’s plot takes no time in getting to the crunch – after an offhand plea to summon the spirit of Bennelong for help, Sebastian gets what he asks for in the form of the figure...