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La Boite makes history with all-teenage cast

New political theatre work The Time Is Now creates history as the first mainstage show in La Boite Theatre’s 96-year tenure to feature an all- teenage cast when it makes its world premiere from 24 May – 5 June 2021.

La Boite’s The Time Is Now is a thrilling glimpse into the future as imagined by 10 switched-on young Queenslanders aged 12-17, spanning diverse cultures, backgrounds and political views.

Co-created by Ari Palani, Aleea Monsour and David Burton, the new work uses powerful speeches to give voice to a generation often silenced or dismissed; weaving in movement, dialogue and surprise cameo appearances to inspire audiences both young and old.

La Boite’s Youth & Education Producer Ari Palani is excited to join the production as co-creator and give adolescents a voice in La Boite’s Roundhouse Theatre.

“The Time Is Now sees young people take to the stage and share their often-overlooked perspective at what is a unique point in history. La Boite’s Young Artist Company will help devise and star in the work, giving audiences an authentic look into a future imagined by our imminent leaders,” Palani said.

I’m honoured to help shepherd these tremendous young artists and give them space for their creative endeavours.

La Boite’s Young Artist Company is a specialised theatre program for young artists to strengthen performance skills and learn from industry professionals.

The Time Is Now hands participants a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to shape mainstage programming at a professional theatre company.

Young Artist Company participant and cast member Huda Akhlaki said the ground-breaking production afforded audiences a fresh perspective through the lens of youth and diversity.

The Time Is Now gives us the opportunity to voice our opinions and perspectives about social and political issues happening right now, as well as our hopes for the future and what we want it to look like. I’m so excited to work with La Boite to have a positive impact through theatre, Akhlaki said.

Co-creator and award-winning writer David Burton said Queensland audiences would be surprised by the show’s relevancy and impressed by the young artists’ talent and creativity.

“This young ensemble is a diverse, bright and articulate group who are absolutely busting to attack the stage! I think audiences will walk away surprised at the energy and directness of this show – it’s very funny, very moving and incredibly inspirational,” Burton said.

It’s rare to see work that is highly localised and timely, but this show focuses on Queensland right now, what young people are thinking about, what they want to express and how they want to challenge audiences. This show is a must-see for Queenslanders.

Developed with All The Queens Men, The Time Is Now will debut from 24 May – 5 June with eight performances in La Boite’s Roundhouse Theatre.

For further information or to purchase tickets, please visit laboite.com.au/ shows/the-time-is-now.

In the event a ticketed performance or event at La Boite is impacted by COVID-19, all ticket holders will be contacted directly and offered refunds or transfers to new dates where performances can be rescheduled.

Peter J Snee

Peter is a British born creative, working in the live entertainment industry. He holds an honours degree in Performing Arts and has over 12 years combined work experience in producing, directing and managing artistic programs & events. Peter has traversed the UK, Europe and Australia pursuing his interest in theatre. He is inspired by great stories and passionately driven by pursuing opportunities to tell them.