Malthouse Theatre and RISING present THE RETURN

Torres Strait Islander playwright John Harvey recounts a dark history of Australia in The Return, inspired by Yorta Yorta man Jason Tamiru’s experiences as a repatriation worker.

Locked away in museums, on display at universities and hoarded in private collections are the bodily remains of First Peoples men, women, and children. Pillaged by grave robbers and sold on by unscrupulous dealers, these people taken from their place of rest have been sold and traded for study and display across the globe.

Harvey (Heart is a Wasteland) weaves three intersecting narratives—a repatriation officer, a museum curator and a bone collector—in an epic tale spanning 250 years. In his Malthouse directorial debut, Tamiru joins forces with Malthouse Theatre Artistic Director Matthew Luttonand a First Nations cast from across Australia including Jimi Bani, Ghenoa Gela, Damion Hunter, Angelica Lockyer, Guy Simon and Laila Thaker.

Malthouse Theatre and RISING’s new production, premiering in the Merlyn Theatre in May, brings to light the macabre true histories, false justifications and the discredited and harmful scientific theory of eugenics used to keep First Peoples remains from reaching their rightful resting places. With many still locked away, now is the time to bring them back to Country for peace and healing.

Co-Director Jason Tamiru:

The inhuman practice of removing our People from Country for research and curiosity has brought much trauma and pain to my People and Country.

Bringing our People back home to Country helps to heal the planet and allows our ancestors to reset their journey to the spirit world. Yurratha, Woka, Biyala, Wala (Sky, Land, Tree, Water, Dreaming)’.

Season Details

Venue: Merlyn Theatre
Date: 13 May– 4 June 2022

For more information click HERE