Bruises

Putting on a theatre show takes a massive amount of work. From creating the story to performing to finding the right sounds to accompany the action, even to mopping the floor it would all be nothing if it weren't for the creative team behind the scenes. Being able to pay our wonderful cohort is something we hold above all else. So let's meet them.

Devon Johnston (center back) is the show's Creator and is the Director of the project. It is her never-ending passion for these mens' stories that brought Bruises to life. Georgia Kellett works as the show's Producer and Choreographer. She uses her extensive knowledge of dance to bring out the visual relationships in a non-verbal way. Felix Crossley-Pritchard is the show's Sound Designer and Co-Choreographer. He has a keen ear for music, especially in relation to emotional storytelling. The trio were 2020 graduates of Te Auaha's Stage and Screen program, where studying closely together for three years has formed strong friendships. Bruises also sees Felix and Georgia (the two covered in paint) performing together as the characters Husband and Wife. Behind the scenes, we have the outstanding Anna Secker (far left) as our Dramaturg and Technical Operator, with Dannii Kellett (back right) creating striking visuals as our Set and Graphics Designer.

Bruises is an award-winning non-verbal Physical Theatre show that combines our contemporary adaptions of the classic dance styles Apache (a dramatic form of tango), Waltz, and Rumba. These are conjoined with elements of Stage Combat based on the topic of male survivors of domestic violence, with the intention to bring their ‘voices’ to Wellington audiences. Pastel powdered paints fill the room in a flurry as the characters manipulate space and light to represent different injuries - both mental and physical. We reference true accounts from men who have been abused by their partners. However, this show is not a brutal viewing for our audiences. We portray all sides of this relationship, the love they shared in the beginning and the hope the husband feels towards his wife. Scenes of a first date, gifts of flowers, and all those wonderful moments that make two people fall for each other, showing a relationship from beginning to end and everything in between.

Our goal is simple. We want to pay our team the amount they deserve for their passionate hard work. As emerging practitioners, we strive to set a standard of always paying our team and that is where we need your help.

Being able to pay these incredible artists allows them to continue creating and bringing important work to Wellington audiences. We thank you for taking the time to read about our project.