Wollongong Town Hall shows a sci-fi film within a play - Route Dash Niner: Part 2

It’s a film within a play and while it is a sequel its audience will still understand what’s happening to the astronauts who find themselves on the fringe of the universe.

The production brings to the stage a low-budget sci-film film shot in real-time before a live audience with all the tricks laid bare.

“We want them to follow the journey and we want them to feel for the astronauts but at the same time it’s like the astronauts are holding a piece of foil,” laughed performer Carly Young.

Read More: 10 years of Wollongong’s music scene in one exhibition

The prequel was first presented in October 2016. Four friends discovered a strange signal coming from the deepest corner of the universe and held a press conference announcing their intention to investigate this signal, bidding farewell to their families.

Performer Steve Wilson-Alexander said of the first instalment he was surprised of the high emotional response received from the audience.

“It was telling people this is fake but people kind of going ‘this is fake but I feel sad that you’re leaving’,” he said.

Read More: Eight life lessons from some of Wollongong's inspiring older people

The re:group team all hail from the University of Wollongong and thrilled Merrigong Theatre Company has supported them in developing and producing their independent works.

The next step is to find other venues outside of the Illawarra to show the production, with ideas of "bookending” a festival with Part 1 and Part 2.

Route Dash Niner: Part 2, Wollongong Town Hall, September 28 to 30. Tickets $31.90 www.merrigong.com.au