BULLY BEEF STEW
It’s a simple feed – corned beef, the, “vegetables you have lying around the kitchen, sort of a peasant meal,” – yet one that crosses state lines and tribal nations. It was something that came up in conversation for Sonny Dallas Law, Colin Kinchela and Bjorn Stewart when developing their show of the same name as a common thread across their different backgrounds.
“This play is about manhood,” says Dallas Law. “There are so many stereotypes put out there by the media, and people who are ignorant only see them as drunks, druggos, or great football heroes or boxers.”
Instead, Bully Beef Stew will explore a more complex and at times challenging tale, through monologues, group performances, installations, interactive elements, dancing and singing.
“It’s raw, we will dive into the ugly side of things that you do see – but mostly it’s a positive message,” says Dallas Law.
As someone who grow up in rural Eidsvold, QLD, to move to Sydney when only 17 to pursue his dream to perform, Dallas Law knows all about the highs and the lows of the journey.
“From my experience, anyone can do it. If they have the belief. I didn’t have the belief but I went ahead with it anyway. Once you take that step and believe in yourself – you can make it.”
Bully Beef Stew is a good example of the powers of transformation. The performance started off as a bud of an idea during a PACT program a few years back, then was mentored by local greats Wayne Blair, Kirk Page, Wesley Enoch and developed into a professional show. And just like the soup, it takes some humble ingredients – a good yarn, a simple message – and turns them into something nourishing.
Jun 29-Jul 9, PACT Theatre, 107 Railway Pde, Erskineville, $18-22, greentix.com.au
