6 Degrees of Ned Kelly

Ned Kelly, Australia’s greatest bushranger, roamed the outback reaping havoc across the dusty plains. Or so history says. Kelly’s stories have been passed down through the generations, creating one of Australia’s best known folklores. In her new production playing at Sydney Fringe, 6 Degrees of Ned Kelly, Melita Rowston explores the Kelly stories that she grew up with and how Australians connect and become something bigger through the art of story-telling.

Through her witty dialogue and physical humour, Rowston recounts the journey she has undertaken to uncover the truth about her ancestors. Along the way, Rowston has met a number of characters who all claim to have a Kelly connection. “…Regardless as to whether that yarn is true, there’s something about the telling that brings us closer to ourselves, our legacy and this country,” said Rowston.

Rowston says that 6 Degrees of Ned Kelly will provide an appreciation of the rich stories that live below the surface of our culture. “It’s amazing what you discover about people and their past if you just ask,” she said. (NB)

Sept 2-6. The Village Theatre, Erskineville Town Hall, 104 Erskineville Rd, Erskineville. $15-$25. Tickets & info: www.sydneyfringe.com

By Nyssa Booth