In this Bennelong play review, we examine the Sydney Theatre Company's latest production where an Indigenous warrior meets the actor playing him in a funny, clever play. Jane Harrison's work brings the complex story of Woollarawarre Bennelong to the stage with an ingenious framework.
Overview of the Play
The play centers on Sebastian (Guy Simon), a young actor in present-day Sydney preparing to audition for the role of Bennelong. He summons the spirit of the Wangal warrior (Googoorewon Knox) into his living room and proceeds to interrogate him about his character and motivations. This meta-theatrical device allows Harrison to explore white interpretations of Bennelong's story while foregrounding Indigenous perspectives.
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Historical Context and Themes
Bennelong was kidnapped in 1789, chained, and kept in captivity by Governor Arthur Phillip. He learned English quickly and became a key intermediary between the colony and the Eora people. In 1792, he traveled to London and spent nearly three years studying the empire's culture, including frequent trips to the theatre. Yet the experience did not win him over; he eventually returned to live among the Eora. The play interrogates how colonial histories have branded him an untrustworthy collaborator and a traitor, while modern First Nations people view him as a sellout or a complex survivor.
Comparison of Perspectives
| Perspective | View of Bennelong |
|---|---|
| Colonists | Untrustworthy collaborator |
| Indigenous (historical) | Traitor to his people |
| Modern First Nations | Complex figure: sellout or survivor? |
Key Takeaways
- The play uses a clever framework where an actor interviews the ghost of Bennelong himself, challenging traditional narratives.
- Jane Harrison is a pre-eminent theatrical truth teller, known for Stolen and The Visitors.
- The production is staged at the Sydney Theatre Company, just a short walk from Bennelong Point and the Barangaroo precinct, adding geographical resonance.
- Bennelong's story raises tensions between past and present Blak perspectives on collaboration and resistance.
FAQ
What is the premise of the Bennelong play?
The play follows Sebastian, a young actor in modern Sydney, who summons the spirit of the Wangal warrior Bennelong to prepare for an audition. They engage in a dialogue that explores Bennelong's life, motivations, and the conflicting interpretations of his legacy.
Who wrote and directed the Bennelong play?
The play was written by Jane Harrison, an Indigenous Australian playwright known for works like Stolen and The Visitors. The production is by the Sydney Theatre Company, directed by an acclaimed team.
Where is the Bennelong play being performed?
The play is staged at the Sydney Theatre Company in Warrane/Sydney, near historical sites like Bennelong Point and Barangaroo, which are named after the real-life figures in the story.
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