Driving drama in SA

Driving drama in SA – with Flinders

With the spotlight on the University’s 50th anniversary in 2016, Flinders University is delighted to be a presenting partner of Machu Picchu – the STC’s new co-production with Sydney Theatre Company.

Flinders University’s close working partnership with State Theatre Company has been a crucible of opportunity for graduates of Flinders’ world-class Drama Centre and related creative arts courses – many of whom are part of this year’s 2016 season.

Some of these success stories are reflected in a special 50th anniversary exhibition at the Adelaide Festival Centre.

The Flinders 50 Creatives exhibition in the Dunstan Playhouse, with a companion display around the Adelaide Festival Theatre foyer, showcases a selection of Flinders University graduates from the arts and creative industries.

Amongst them is the STC’s artistic director Geordie Brookman, who is in impeccable company. Not only is the Machu Picchu director working with top-notch South Australian playwright Sue Smith and a talented cast including Lisa McCune and Darren Gilshenan on Machu Picchu, he can also take a few minutes a walk down memory lane in the Playhouse foyer.

A 2001 Flinders drama graduate, Mr Brookman joins two other 2016 STCSA season players also featuring in the exhibition – young director Nescha Jelk (directing Elena Carapetis’s new play Gorgon in May and Straight White Men in July) and emerging playwright Phillip Kavanagh (adapting Moliere’s Tartuffe for STC in November).

Other playwrights, directors, producers and actors, including James Smith, Nathan O’Keefe and Lizzy Frankland this year, are building their future through the State Theatre Company, and in their home state, says Flinders University Strategic Professor of Creative Arts Julian Meyrick.

“Our relationship with the State Theatre is long-standing and fruitful,” says Professor Meyrick, who also is Artistic Counsel for STC.

“Many of our graduates have worked here, and the values of the company reflect the values of creative arts training at Flinders - boldness of imagination, intelligence, and strong and ethical community engagement.

“This is a partnership we are very proud of indeed.”

Flinders Vice-Chancellor Professor Colin Stirling says the partnership is helping to build the next generation of South Australian theatre-makers.

“Our relationship with the STC is of a richness that goes beyond the connections usually conveyed by the phrase ‘community engagement’,” Professor Stirling says. “As the State’s major educator in the creative and performing arts – having recently added dance, fashion and visual arts to the mix – Flinders has a proud record of fostering the creative expertise that is helping to drive this premier arts entity.

“The STC in turn offers our drama, creative writing and directing students myriad opportunities for professional experience through mentorships and by attending rehearsals and commissioning workshops.

“This creative approach to integrating learning with genuine work opportunities is a hallmark of Flinders’ strategy to ensure our students are ready to seamlessly step into their careers as they complete their courses.” Professor Stirling says.

The Flinders 50 Creatives’ Exhibition recognises the outstanding achievements and impact of Flinders creatives over half a century, enriching the cultural life of South Australia, Australia, and beyond.

Story by: Tania Bawden