Empire Makes Arts Accessible with Auslan Interpretation of Possum Magic
The magic of a beloved Australian classic was spread further these school holidays with the addition of Auslan interpretation for Possum Magic on July 4.
The magic of a beloved Australian children’s classic was spread further these school holidays with the addition of Auslan interpretation for The Empire’s two performances of Possum Magic on July 4.
Celebrating 40 years of enchanting young readers, Monkey Baa Theatre Company’s Possum Magic; based on the book by Mem Fox and Julie Vivas and adapted for the stage by Eva Di Cesare and Sandie Eldridge, uses a clever nuanced palette of live action, stage magic, an original soundscape with elements of puppetry and projected animation for audiences aged 3-8.
Following the story of Grandma Poss, who loves making magic, and Hush who she turned invisible in order to escape danger, Possum Magic takes the audience on an adventure as they try to find the special ingredient for the spell to make Hush visible again… something to do with food. People food.
Alongside the incredible actors bringing Hush’s whimsical world to life will be interpreters by Auslan Stage Left, who work hard to create an immersive and engaging arts experience.
Auslan Stage Left Director, Susan Emerson said without interpretation, a deaf audience member has to decipher other audience member’s body language and create a version of the show in their mind; often a tiring task.
“With Auslan interpreted events, the deaf audience can fully immerse themselves in the whole experience, receiving the message and lyrics of the performance in their own language. They simply watch and enjoy.”
Susan Emerson- Auslan Stage Left
“It’s an honour to work with production companies who are dedicated to accessibility and inclusion.
“We are extremely proud of the dedicated, passionate and professional Auslan interpreters in our pool and appreciate the effort they place in translating and rehearsing scripts and lyrics for shows.”
Audience members wishing to best utilise the Auslan interpreter are advised to contact The Empire’s Ticket Office when booking tickets for assistance with seating choice.
For more information or to book tickets, please contact The Empire on 1300 655 299 or visit www.empiretheatre.com.au.
#What’s New
After four sold-out shows in September of this year, Theatre of Magic is returning by popular demand to The Empire for a six-month series of performances.
The Empire Foundation has continued their commitment to supporting and nurturing the young performers of the region with the presentation of the 2024 Empire Youth Bursaries.
The Southern Queensland Regional Arts Services Network (RASN) will shine a light on talented artists across Southern Queensland with the creation of a high-quality publication aimed at celebrating the spirit and stories of Southern Queensland art and culture.
A remarkable true story of unity, humanity and hope lands on The Empire stage when Tony and Olivier Award-winning hit Broadway musical Come From Away performs from 14 – 23 March 2025.
The Empire’s popular family festival Thrive on Arts will return from September 26-29, celebrating all things nature and the environment.
In the lead-up to 2024 NAIDOC Week celebrations, The Empire launched their Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) in support of their ongoing commitment to fostering reconciliation in Australia.
