One-man show
Award-winning comedian Damian Callinan’s hit one-man show “The Merger” will come full circle when it returns to the stage in Warragul.
It will be performed in the theatre two space of the West Gippsland Arts Centre on Thursday, May 13 at 8pm.
The one-man show was turned into a feature film in 2018 starring Kate Mulvany, John Howard and Callinan himself. It received multiple awards and nominations, rave reviews, and is reverently compared by critics to cult Aussie classics such as “The Castle”.
Originally commissioned by Regional Arts
Victoria and Vic Health to tackle issues of racism in rural communities, “The Merger” tells the tale of the Bodgy Creek Football Club and coach Troy Carrington.
This battling team seems destined to either fold or merge with their archrivals.
Callinan effortlessly fluctuates between characters; crossing age, gender and ethnicity as Coach Carrington’s mission unfolds: to recruit asylum seekers and save his team.
“Turning ‘The Merger’ into a film has been the highlight of my career, but I still love performing the solo version,” says Callinan. “Since the adaptation, I’ve had people shaking their heads in wonderment about how that story could possibly be told by one man on a near empty stage. I look forward to them nodding and saying ‘oh, that's how, with sock puppets’!”
“I love performing on the road more than anything else – the connection with the audience is greater, as is their appreciation for your work,” he added.
Tickets are $30 for general, $27 for concession and $23 for members and youth under 18.
The 75-minute show contains mild course language, adult themes and nudity. It is recommended for ages 14 plus.
For bookings or further information, contact the West Gippsland Arts Centre box-office on 5624 2456 or visit wgac.com.au.