Reviews
“Van Hout and her ensemble have delivered a fresh and emotionally affecting take on an Australian classic, well worth the trip to Sydney’s west for those who normally restrict their theatre diet to within their capital city”. – Steve Dow, Limelight Magazine
“Stolen has, over the last 18 years, become a modern classic, and this new production offers a slightly different spin on the text. And it’s entirely appropriate that it’s created for the new National Theatre of Parramatta, where the country’s first “native institution” was established just over two centuries ago to “civilise” Aboriginal people. The play is at once a chance to reflect on the tragedies of our recent past and a celebration of the endurance of Aboriginal people and their diverse cultures.” – Ben Neutze, DailyReview
“Van Hout is better known as a choreographer and contemporary performance maker and her production, as you might expect, is strikingly physical at times with trauma described in surprising or at least unusual ways…this is an arresting piece of theatremaking with an experimental edge to it.” – Jason Blake, Sydney Morning Herald
“This production, infused with dance and song cycle, is an innovative and energetic entre into the study of this powerful, enduring and evolving text.” – Richard Cotter, Australian Stage
“The individual stories woven into the piece are powerful, and so obviously indicative of the experiences of many of the 100,000 stolen children and their families. Harrison’s words are thoughtfully chosen, each character’s plight described with sensitivity, and it’s largely very matter-of-fact in its tone. There are fleeting moments of humour, which appropriately incorporate moments of lightness into an otherwise heavy piece. What’s especially satisfying about Harrison’s text is that there’s no tendency to craft the storytelling in a manner that tries to maximise dramatic impact. Each character’s experience speaks for itself, and Harrison’s restrained text allows it do so. That simplicity is matched in the performances of the ensemble cast, which ooze authenticity and nothing is ever in danger of feeling overwrought…Van Hout has worked with co-designer Imogen Ross to create a production design well paired to the text. Especially impressive is the use of cardboard for much of the set, which suggests the transiency, fragmentation and fragility of the worlds of each character, and everything within those world.” – Theatrepeople
“Van Hout has inter-woven and augmented the scenes with beautifully choreographed and performed dance and movement segments, that heighten the anguish and despair of the stories, yet infuse them with a renaissance of identity and hope.” – Carol Wimmer, Stage Whispers
“The second work in the first season by the National Theatre of Parramatta, Stolen reflects the Riverside’s mission to present work that resonates with audiences, allowing them to immerse themselves in issues that have dramatically and unfairly impacted on the well-being of our indigenous community.” – Lynne Lancaster, Sydney Arts Guide
“Van Hout’s production is expansive, earthy, and generous…Here, this production of Stolen is at its best: confronting, hurting, angry, honest.” – Cassie Tongue, TimeOut Sydney
Press
National Theatre of Parramatta continues to celebrate its inaugural season with its second production, Stolen, by Jane Harrison. This classic and important work will be brought to life in a bold, inspired and contemporary fashion on Riverside’s stage in June. Catherine Skipper from South Sydney Herald caught up with accomplished indigenous independent artist, Vicki van Hout, who is directing this production. – South Sydney Herald
National Theatre to host Jane Harrison’s acclaimed historical text – Herald Sun
Twenty years on and Parramatta Riverside play Stolen still a poignant reminder to act with humanity. “These works do more than entertain, they are a symbol, a magnifying glass trained on society, using our past foibles as a tool for the way to move forward.” – The Daily Telegraph
Stolen back on stage to reinforce ‘a way forward.’ “It is important that works like Stolen, which reveal a social atrocity, remain in the public realm because they act as reminders to behave with kindness and integrity.” – National Indigenous Times
Stolen close to Bee’s heart. Lansvale resident, Bee Cruse awarded professional mentorship at National Theatre of Parramatta – Fairfield City Champion
Interview with NTofP’s Creative Futures Program participant, Bee Cruse: “I am a person who chases me dreams, no matter how out there or how crazy, I believe that I can do it.” – The Westies
National Theatre of Parramatta to Present Jane Harrison’s Stolen – Broadway World
Interview with director Vicki Van Hout – Alt Media
“In a kaleidoscope of short scenes, the playwright delivers the experience of thousands through the prism of five characters who were forcibly removed from their families as children. Most of the stories are told by the characters as children, and the language is poetic and impressionistic. Van Hout describes it as a kind of modern Dreaming, or song-cycle: a nonlinear, episodic and more fluid form of storytelling.” – TimeOut Sydney
“As National Theatre of Parramatta’s second major work in their inaugural season, Stolen will reflect the company’s mission to present work that resonates with audiences, allowing them to immerse themselves in a story about the importance of family, the issues that have impacted strongly on Aboriginal families and the history of a nation.” – Arts Review
Stealing beauty: Vicki Van Hout talks National Theatre of Parramatta.“It’s all happening out there. I don’t know who the town planner is, but the face of Parramatta is changing drastically. I’ve been collaborating with people out there substantially now for about seven years, and that’s really where most of my work is fuelled.” – Dance Informa
Jane Harrison play returns to Parramatta stage for students. Stolen returns in 2016 as part of Riverside Theatres’ extensive education program. – ArtsHub
