Segue 2016: Alzheimer Symphony

The story of a man who is beginning to forget.

During a performance of Shakespeare’s King Lear, a renowned elderly actor forgets his lines. This is the beginning of his descent into the long twilight that is Alzheimer’s disease. As his memory deteriorates occurrences that would once have been shocking – such as finding a sock in his soup – are no longer questioned. He is reduced to living in a confined space, modified with numerous contraptions to meet his needs: pop up kitchen, shower, sports field and library. Although valiantly fighting, he succumbs to his fate and as thought slips aways, feelings grows stronger and his inner child is revived.

The magical world for this story is a contraption hosting a pop up kitchen, bathroom and other ingenious devices which has delighted audiences throughout Austria.

Written and performed by acclaimed Tasmanian artist Justus Neumann, this poignant tragi-comedy is punctuated by moments of genuine light-heartedness and humour that will take the audience on a rewarding and insightful journey.
 

“…a poetic and infinitely inventive meditation on the final stages of aging. It is also a masterful piece of theatre making”. The Mercury

" Justus Neumann is an artist of the highest order. His work is regarded as one of the most important elements in the theatrical landscape of Vienna in the last few decades. His investigation into the “black clown” as performer, director and theatre maker has enabled Justus to develop and transform his work across different genres and diverse continents. Justus’ connection with Australia is an important one. He brings a unique approach to the theatre that enriches the cultural landscape and the audiences that he performs to.” Barrie Kosky, Artistic Director, Schauspielhaus

Street Two, unreserved | Duration 65 minutes, no interval