My Name Is Jimi, Queensland Theatre at Fairfax Studio, Arts Centre Melbourne, Thursday October 4th 2018
For those new to my blog I write about the holistic experience of attending the theatre. I buy my own tickets. So if you want a re-telling of the story please refer to the links for further information or for further insights. Note, that I may provide different links for repeated main words or phrases. I write for my memories of what I have seen, and is more of a stream of consciousness.
No programme was available for the production before the show. The ushers were handing the programmes out after the show. I can understand why the programmes were held back to reduce any spoilers in the show, and to alleviate any cheating with the audience participation. I prefer to read the programme notes prior to a show for an immersive experience. I was grateful to be able to get a programme due to the powerful messages relayed during the show.
"My Name Is Jimi" is based upon a story by Dimple Bani and Jimi Bani, and was co-created by Jason Klarwein for the Queensland Theatre.
Directed by Jason Klarwein has created a thought provoking and emotional journey for Jimi and his family. There is no anger and victim-hood in this production, but a journey of love understanding.
The opening is a ceremonial Torres Strait Island dance that sets the scene.
We are introduced to Jimi's family and his family tree. We will be tested on all of the different names for the many branches of relatives. We learn about his culture and it all makes sense when we see their culture stripped away and reinvented with modern attire and contemporary technology.
The show is a bit didactic at times, but has a huge emotional heart sharing the love of his parents and his culture.
I shed a tear or two in respect for his story. The messages are powerful. I nearly stood cheering when Jimi was outraged at mobile phone usage and his line about the "fire went out". Heaven forbid if you leave your mobile phone on during this show! We need more of this wonderful message of destruction of culture. I adored his message of respect for culture and family.
I adored another line about culture and life. That is what this show is about - culture and life!
What made it so potent was there was no bashing or ramming down our throats about the English. Jimi and the cast resisted being victims. They stood strong and proud. I embrace their passion.
There was an incredible respect for his parents and what they achieved anthropologically, culturally and linguistically.
Jimi provides an enraged dramatic exit at one stage that reminded me of the famous exit from the musical "Nine". This exit in "My Name Is Jimi" has more social importance that demands respect for its message.
The use of the camera, and dioramas, and the projection were captivating. The use of simple cut out puppets being projected within the three dioramas was terrific, as it also gave us an insight into the origins of theatre. There were three dioramas: the island and sea; the hut and surrounds; and later an under the sea scene. These dioramas were so clever in design and application within the show.
Designed by Simona Ceosentini and Simone Tesorieri have provided a holistic experience that encompasses a glimpse of a museum with atefacts above the main stage area; the dioramas transport us with the use of the digital camera, cutout puppets and projections. Part of the book projection reminded me of "Dark Circus" by Stereoptik.
The message of the future use technology is hopeful.
The staging at times was a bit clunky, and this added to the gravitas of the important moments in the show. The staging and performances are raw at times, and this is part of the charm of this production. We are made to feel part of this extended family without prejudice.
The welcome mat is rolled up to conclude the show, and boy have we felt welcomed!
What a tribute to Jimi Bani's parents and his culture.
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