Is this the show of the century? Black Cockatoo is inspired by the true story of legendary First Nations cricketer Unaarrimin, AKA Johnny Mullagh and Australia’s first ever international sporting team. This authentically Australian stage performance goes beyond a story of cricket, exploring themes of strength, resistance, hope and possibility. Broadway World found Black Cockatoo “A wonderful balance of educating and entertaining… hard hitting honesty and delightful comedy” Bunjil Place is showcasing this inspirational story for one night only, Saturday 19 March 2022.
Over 150 years ago, 13 brave Aboriginal men in Western Victoria picked up their cricket bats and embarked on a treacherous voyage to England and into the unknown, all in the name of Australia’s favourite sport. Risking illness and persecution, Australia’s first international cricket team, including Australia’s first Indigenous sporting hero, Johnny Mullagh, amazed the English crowds with astonishing talent, personality and grit. They should have returned to Australia as celebrated heroes. Instead, they came back to find the world they once knew was no longer there. They represented a nation that wouldn’t recognise their rights for another century.
The story begins in present day, when a group of young activists sneak into the Wimmera Discovery Centre to expose the truth of what happened to Johnny and his team mates, a hidden legend of triumph and tragedy unfolds. Funny and incredibly moving, Black Cockatoo is a new artistic collaboration between iconic Australian writer Geoffrey Atherden (MOTHER AND SON, BABAKIUERIA) and former Sydney Festival Artistic Director Wesley Enoch (BLACK DIGGERS).
“Black Cockatoo tells a story that should be part of the national storytelling. Everyone should know this story. It’s about our great national obsession and our great national neglect.” – Director Wesley Enoch
During the month of March the show will then embark on a tour across the east coast of Australia, including a number of Victorian venues, Geelong Arts Centre, the Clocktower Centre, Bunjil Place and Frankston Arts Centre.
Content Warning: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander audiences are advised that this show contains depictions of people who have died.
Black Cockatoo
Saturday 19 March, 8.00pm-9.30pm
Adult $45.00
Pensioners/Seniors $40.00
Full Time Students $22.00
2 Patrick NE Dr, Narre Warren VIC 3805
https://www.bunjilplace.com.au/black-cockatoo
Image credit: Supplied by Bunjil Place
