A magical children's book by ocean photographer Ted Grambeau is the subject of Merrigong Theatre Company's first foray into producing a work for little ones.
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The Wollongong company has utilised local artists and actors for the multi-media adaption of The Surfer and the Mermaid, which is at the Illawarra Performing Centre from July 18 to 20.
Despite Merrigong being actively committed to producing local stage works, director Simon Hinton said they hadn't explored children's productions until now because the nation had a smorgasbord for choice in the the sector.
"Australia is blessed by having some of the best producers of children's theatre in the world - and that's acknowledged globally in our industry," Hinton said.
"[It] had a real relevance as a coastal community - and a community where lots of kids do nippers and interact with the ocean on a daily basis - this felt like something specific to our place, a story we could tell."
The play follows the tale of a young surfer on a magical underwater journey. Captured by a mermaid, the surfer is led to the depths of the ocean to meet her friends the whales.
In keeping with the show's message to conserve the world's oceans, the set is made in part from recycled materials including thousands of plastic bottles.
The season will also include a "relaxed performance" on July 20, with an informal environment with less emphasis on sound effects and lighting - well suited to people living on the Autism spectrum.
"Of all the things we provide in the city - our cultural life, our theatre - should really embrace everyone in the community," Hinton said.
"Not everybody is capable of sitting quietly in silence in the dark - but we want to make sure they can still access these experiences and feel comfortable."
The show will also have a season on the Gold Coast next year.
Surfer and the Mermaid, Illawarra Performing Arts Centre, July 18 to 20. Duration is 45 minutes with no interval. A relaxed performance will be Saturday July 20 at 10am. www.merrigong.com.au