A thought provoking solo show challenging political polarisation
Image: Melody Rachel will perform DEMO at Sydney Fringe. Image: supplied
By ISABELLA GIBBS
Amidst the buzzing anticipation surrounding the upcoming Sydney Fringe Festival, one performance promises to transcend the boundaries of traditional art. Melody Rachel’s solo show DEMO represents her brave journey of exploring the intricate merge of identity, belief, and longing for acceptance in the modern-day world of political polarisation.
DEMO is more than just a performance; it’s a personal journey unravelled with a genuine authenticity. Rachel’s motivation for the show is deeply personal.
“I’m creating DEMO in response to feeling alienated by my peers and communities I thought I belonged to for having different beliefs than them,” she shared in an interview. “I am motivated to create the work to see if other people feel the same way.” From making this discovery, her endeavour lies in one question, “Do we need to have the same beliefs to get along with each other?”
Her journey has consisted of many bouts of self-discovery, resonating with a raw and intimate authenticity. From her roots of growing up in a conservative Christian household, Rachel struggled to reconcile her gay identity with the values of her faith.
“Being gay and Christian has led to feelings of isolation and exclusion within the LGBT community and in the Christian community, and I’m seeking to reconcile the two,” she revealed. These very contradictions have shaped her personal journey which has prompted DEMO to shed light on the shared experiences among differing perspectives.
Beyond its engaging storyline, the show takes a dive into the complexities that belief and acceptance have on identity. Rachel’s openness on stage reflects the personal growth she experienced in her own self-discovery. Through her honest portrayal of feeling disconnected, she hopes to start discussions that bridge gaps in beliefs.
“I’m keen for theatre to be a conversation starter and a platform to build relationships with people from different communities. By sharing my own journey of feeling alienated by various people and groups, I want to encourage conversations that bridge ideological and political divides.”
DEMO challenges views and stereotypes, calling upon audiences to question, introspect, and engage. The show’s invitation to contemplate differences and connections resonates deeply in a world yearning for unity.
