From Stolen Generation to Koori theatre in the 70s, from Hollywood film sets to Victorias state prisons, Jack Charles V The Crown runs the gamut of a life lived to its utmost. A gifted performer, Jack Charles has struggled with homelessness, drug addiction and jail time for much of his career. But this is no simple parable of crime and punishment. Charles charm, humour, talent and unswerving optimism transforms his life of hard knocks into an extraordinary tale.
Returning triumphantly to the stage, Charles is not afraid to confront the complexity of his story. In doing so he shines a light on Australias history of injustices against Aboriginal people. His vital reflections on race and the punitive state are uplifted by a sense of hope found within the redemptive qualities of storytelling.
Under the wing of ILBIJERRI, the oldest Indigenous theatre company in Australia, Charles journey moves lyrically between raw video footage, charismatic monologues, mock courtroom trials and even a pottery demonstration, all interspersed with rousing musical numbers backed by a three-piece band. Delighting audiences internationally, including at an acclaimed premiere season at Londons Barbican Theatre, Charles generous spirit and warm presence is set to win the hearts of Auckland audiences.