The Shadow King reimagines King Lear as the head of a remote community embattled by itself over mining rights, inheritance and wealth, transporting the classic blood-soaked tragedy to the story-steeped and resource-laden terrain of Northern Australia.

A violent tale of two indigenous families at war over land, identity and legitimacy, The Shadow King sees Lear descend into madness and brutality amidst the backdrop of the scorching Australian outback, dominated by the imposing presence and blinding lights of a mining truck. 

Told through modern English, Kriol languages and with a score performed live by an onstage band, the production fuses new text, video and Aboriginal ‘dreamtime’ songs to create provocative and memorable theatre. 

Age recommendation: 12+.