Astronomical – theatre production and astronomy experience
- 9 Aug 2018
In a world-first, Astronomical combined an outdoor theatre production with an astronomy experience to view the night stars as part of a 2017 Queensland tour.
What
Townsville’s Full Throttle Theatre and the Townsville Astronomy Group presented Astronomical - an outdoor theatre production which contemplated the universe through the lens of scientists, followed by a nighttime viewing of the stars.
Astronomical traced the history of space exploration through the perspective of science pioneers Galileo, Einstein, Neil Armstrong and Stephen Hawking as portrayed by two actors in a 30-minute play.
Eerie radio signals from Saturn and other planets inspired the production’s music and sound effects.
Following the play, the cast invited the audience to view the constellations and planets in the night sky through large computer controlled telescopes.
Key stats
- 2 actors and 2 astronomers
- 4830 attendances at 56 locations
- 38 solar workshops at schools
Arts Queensland investment
$76,420 – Playing Queensland Fund
Arts Queensland supports regional tours to deliver performances, exhibitions and community engagement activities in Queensland communities.
When and where
June to Sept 2017 tour to Queensland locations: Ayr, Baralaba, Barcaldine, Bauhinia, Beaudesert, Biggenden, Biloela, Blackall, Blackwater, Boonah, Boulia, Carmilla, Cardwell, Charleville, Charters Towers, Chinchilla, Clermont, Cloncurry, Cooktown, Cunnamulla, Dajarra, Dirranbandi, Duaringa, Dysart, Eidsvold, Einasleigh, Emerald, Emu Park, Forsayth, Gayndah, Georgetown, Goondiwindi, Hughenden, Ingham, Innisfail, Jambin, Julia Creek, Longreach, Mareeba, Marlborough, Mitchell, Monto, Moura, Mt Surprise, Mundubberra, Murgon, Nanango, Nebo, Richmond, Rolleston, Roma, Springsure, Stanthorpe, Taroom, Theodore, Tieri, Tinaroo, Tully, Warwick, Winton, Wowan, Wujal Wujal, Yeppoon.
Outcomes
- Astronomical attracted all age groups, from small children to 90 year olds.
- High degree of community engagement and support. In some communities the audience numbers exceeded the town’s population.
- Local community groups set up BBQs and brought hot pots and Astronomical became the focus of a larger community event.
- The tour was expansive, covering 56 Queensland locations. In some smaller communities Astronomical was the first ever arts touring production to visit.
- Supported mental health outcomes: Many areas were experiencing prolonged drought and widespread depression. Local anecdotal evidence from Council officers suggested Astronomical helped to alleviate these issues.
- Support for schools and educational outcomes: Using solar telescopes, the workshops showed the sun to thousands of enthralled children.
Feedback
“Thanks for bringing such a wonderful experience to Winton.” Jodie A.
“It was amazeballs” Ceiliah H. (aged 13)
“Fabulous production marrying theatre and astronomy. Fourth night I’ve seen it and still brilliant.” Rebekah, Etheridge Shire Council
Learning and reflections
Full Throttle identified the need to improve upon administration and tour management and implement better processes for liaising with councils and schools. In future, the company will consider the need for an understudy to be flown in at short notice if required.
Artist comments
The tour was targeted at small communities, often with no theatre or power. The setup took less than an hour and bump out took less than 30 minutes.
Astronomical was completely self-sufficient. It did not require a building, external power, lighting or seating and was designed to be delivered in any open area. In some cases we performed in the road reserve, a hotel carpark, parks, sports ovals, school ovals, showgrounds, national parks or beauty spots.
Everything required (including power, lighting, audio visual equipment, six large telescopes, and the actors) travelled in a single vehicle. The astronomers travelled in a separate caravan which saved money on accommodation.
Our production left no physical trace aside from the evidence of a significant community and social positive impact.
Tips for others
Identify a local champion in each area. Have a scout go in advance to solve any venue problems and ensure that promotion is adequate.
Using Facebook Events for each performance was effective. Selling tickets through council libraries, rather than through the local councils, is an option.
What next?
In September 2018 the company will tour Central Queensland with ASTRONOMICAL 2, new characters, more music, song, dance, projection and El Gordo the man sized telescope and a new theatre truck.
Find out more
A pdf copy (232.47 KB) of this case study is available.
Banner image: Hamish Weir, Unsplash