Rhinoceros @ The Spring Hill Reservoir

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Fri 13 Oct 2017 - Sat 28 Oct 2017

One of Brisbane's unique and special performance venues is the Spring Hill Reservoir. For 2 weeks in October, heartBeast Theatre will be staging the critically acclaimed absurdist theatrical work Rhinoceros in the caverns beneath Wickham Park.



Rhinoceros

Two people are sitting at a cafe when a rhinoceros charges past. Obviously, this is not something to be expected in most parts of the world (spoiler, the play is not set in Africa) but surely it must be a one-off event. Then they find that their friends and colleagues are also transforming into rhinos.

Rhinoceros is an example of the Theatre of the Absurd. But the question it asks is, how do you remain human when all those around you are turning into beasts? The play was written by the French Avant-garde playwright Eugène Ionesco and has been a popular, if not, iconic work of its type. Rhinoceros reflects his experience growing up in the interwar period in Romania and the rise of fascism.

About the Theatre of Abusrd

In a world that seems to be losing its meaning, absurdity allows playwrights to confront core themes of society by introducing ridiculous elements. A modern version of this is seen in the zombie film craze, which explores a similar theme to Rhinoceros, that is, what do you do if everyone around you has turned into a zombie or rhino.

A common view of absurdist theatre is that it is about the inherent meaningless of existence. Yet, in plays like Rhinoceros, the central characters core struggle is the value and meaning of their life in what is essentially not so much an absurd world, but one where traditional human values are falling apart. The absurdity is only used to highlight the real and meaningful and doesn't have to suggest that life is without any meaning.

About heartBeast Theatre

This Brisbane based theatre company aims to bring experienced and emerging talent together to foster creative principles in theatre and performance. They operate both as a learning space and a theatre company, putting on a wide variety of performances.

About the Venue

The first of the two Spring Hill Reservoirs was built in 1871 and the second 11 years after that, and they remained in operation until 1962. Constructed of red-brick and mortar these below ground reservoirs feature numerous columns and arches for reinforcement.



Since 2014, they have been increasingly used for cultural events which usually attract a crowd just to experience a performance in this unique space. Performances have included opera, musicals and carols, though thanks to heartBeast and Theatre Anywhere, it has become known as a theatrical performance space as well. The last event I attended at the reservoirs was an art exhibition in the darkened caverns.

Unfortunately be aware that the venue is not wheelchair accessible and people should wear closed toe shoes when attending a performance. This is because access is via steep temporary stairs at either end of the reservoir.



Getting there

The Spring Hill Reservoir is in a spot that makes it not quite right for either driving or public transport. If you drive, there is only limited street parking in the area, though you can try Wilsons Parking at 225 Wickham Terrace. After 6:30 pm on weekdays and on weekends it is only $10 to park there.

With public transport, there are some buses that stop near the reservoir, but most people walk from Roma Street Station, Central Station or the bus stops in the CBD. Remember it is a little bit of a hike to the top of the hill.

Before and after the play

With the performance starting at 7:30 pm, you will probably want to eat before the show. Luckily the Mill Hotel is right across the road from the venue with a great reputation for pub grub, but if you want something a little more upmarket, the Gazebo Bar and Restaurant is a short walk up Wickham Terrace.

#brisbane_city
#inner_suburbs
#performing_arts
#spring_hill
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#unusual_events
#october
!date 13/10/2017 -- 28/10/2017
%wnbrisbane