GIG REVIEW - PRICKLY PEAR - BROWNS MART THEATRE - JULY 9

Prickly Pear is a one-hour multidisciplinary show, produced by Rhino Milk Productions and Vexel Creations. I had the wonderful privilege of being able to witness this incredible show on July 9, and it will also be running again today (July 10) for anyone who may have missed out.

Brown’s Mart Theatre is a small venue which made for an intimate show where performers and audience felt connected. With 14 performances, there was something for everyone - music, poetry, dance, you name it! The show went for one hour, so it was the perfect taste of each performer’s talent, and provided you enough of a sneak peak to go seek out the rest of their work and keep an eye out for any solo shows.

Prickly Pear showcases the creative practice of women and gender-diverse people. The show booked entirely local artists, so you’re both supporting the local scene, as well as coming across people who may be sharing the same experience you have encountered, through art.

Prickly Pear showcased performances by Anjelkah, Crystal Robins, Lena Kelli, Muffi Jaye, The Wanted Gems, VELIA, Dina Indrasafitri, Rosie Wild, Lindsey Matthews, Alex Morris, Jacinta Rose, and Kodivine.

These artists shared their own unique, personal stories, as well as stories that others may be able to relate to including injustices in youth detention centres, sexual assault, racism, and more. However, these performances were done in a respectful manner with trigger warnings in between each performance.

The performance that stuck out the most for me was a dance by Muffi Jaye which focused on the negative impacts youth detention centres can have. The eye contact Muffi maintained with the audience throughout the performance ensured you the message stuck with you long after they had left the stage. Curiosity definitely unfolded in the room.

You will leave the show feeling inspired, motivated, and you may even find yourself thinking about some of the experiences brought up by the artists.

You can catch Prickly Pear again in Browns Mart Theatre at 3pm this afternoon.

You can also catch Prickly Pear performers Kodivine and VELIA at The Lucky Bat.

Tickets are available via the Darwin Fringe website, or you can purchase them at the door.