National Theatre of Parramatta

Stolen

Written by Jane Harrison
Directed by Vicki Van Hout

On the 20th anniversary of its premiere season, this timely revival of Jane Harrison’s landmark play is as powerful today as it was for its very first audience. Stolen interweaves the stories of five children taken from their families – Ruby, Jimmy, Shirley, Sandy and Ann. Wiradjuri director Vicki Van Hout’s critically acclaimed production is vibrant and inventive, with endearing characters and plenty of humour. Beautifully designed and skilfully performed, this is an arresting piece of theatre.

Expansive, earthy, and generous.

★★★★ Cassie Tongue, TIME OUT

Van Hout’s interpretation of this classic text is visceral, clever, funny and affecting.

Stolen interweaves the stories of five children taken from their families - Ruby, Jimmy, Shirley, Sandy and Ann. Their stories are from different times and different places, but theirs are the stories of many.

As we recognise that more Indigenous children are being removed today than at any other time in Australian history, Harrison’s play remains an important text for audiences of all ages.

Approaching the text as a song cycle, Van Hout brings to Stolen a poetic rhythm and captivating fluidity, allowing the story to unfold in what she refers to as a ‘dreaming time’.

Stolen premiered at Riverside Theatres, Parramatta in 2015 to critical and audience acclaim and a 3-week sell-out season. With endearing characters and plenty of humour, Stolen is ultimately a play about love, loss, resilience and hope that will resonate long after you return home.

FROM THE WRITER

For audiences, I hope it brings understanding that we are all part of this story, it is part of our history and our present.
For the Aboriginal community members in the audience, it is my profound hope that we do your stories justice.

REVIEWS

"The play is at once a chance to reflect on the tragedies of our recent past and a celebration of the endurance of Aboriginal people and their diverse cultures."
★★★★ - Ben Neutze, Daily Review full review

"Van Hout and her ensemble have delivered a fresh and emotionally affecting take on an Australian classic."
Limelight Magazine full review

“Beautifully choreographed and performed dance and movement segments, that heighten the anguish and despair of the stories, yet infuse them with a renaissance of identity and hope.”
Carol Wimmer, Stage Whispers full review

“STOLEN reflects the Riverside’s mission to present work that resonates with audiences, allowing them to immerse themselves in issues that have dramatically and unfairly impacted on the well-being of our Indigenous community.”
Lynne Lancaster, Sydney Arts Guide full review