Jan28

Jack Charles v The Crown

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The University Theatre, 230 University Court Northwest, University Way NW, Calgary

Part of the 30th annual High Performance Rodeo, Calgary’s International Festival of the Arts

Based on the life of Uncle Jack Charles, spoken in his own words.

A powerful one-man show that shines the spotlight on the colourful life of one of Australia’s near forgotten treasures. Jack is an actor, musician, potter and gifted performer, but for a good portion of his nearly 70 years he has also been homeless, an addict, a thief and a regular in Victoria’s prisons.

A respected Aboriginal elder who pioneered Koorie theatre in the early 70s, founded Nindethana, the first Aboriginal theatre company, was a television regular and the star of movies including The Chant of Jimmie Blacksmith, Jack is one of Australia’s most highly regarded performers. At almost 70, no longer caught in the cycle of addiction, crime and doing time, Jack sings and tells his extraordinary tale with extraordinary flair.

“Steeped in decades of our history (social, political, theatrical), surprisingly upbeat…

A warm-hearted, very entertaining evening.” - Sydney Morning Herald

“There is something special about Uncle Jack. Something about his voice, his stature, his laugh, his story – something powerful but humbling. It was that something that ricocheted people to their feet to give the man a standing ovation. It is most certainly, something that you won’t want to miss.” - Australian Stage