Australia’s leading Aboriginal theatre company, Yirra Yaakin, is ending the year with Bruce Denny’s new comedy play Operation Boomerang, a story about a spirited matriarch determined to get out of the old folk’s home and return to Country.
Running for only two weeks from October 4 to 19 at Subiaco Arts Centre, this production has everyone buzzing with excitement to see the renowned lead performer come out of retirement—the critically acclaimed Dr. Lynette Narkel!
Lynette Narkel is an award-winning and highly respected actor and director of Indigenous theatre and film. Notable works include The Sapphires (2012), but her remarkable career spans almost six decades, and she is recognised nationally and internationally as one of Australia’s leading Aboriginal actors and performing arts practitioners.
Operation Boomerang was written by Bruce Denny when he was participating in the Yirra Yaarnz Writers Group, Yirra Yaakin’s intensive program for emerging Aboriginal playwriters. Mentored by award-winning playwrights Polly Low and Hellie Turner, Bruce Denny brought his relatable family humour to the stage, where it is now brought to life by a formidable cast.
With Lynette triumphantly at centre stage and esteemed Perth Festival director Ian Wilks as director, Operation Boomerang is shaping up to be the highlight of the year. Tickets are already on sale, so get them before they’re gone!
GET TICKETS HERE
Audiences can expect a 75-minute theatrical experience packed with laughter, tears, and everything in between. The play’s recommendation for ages 15+ as it does explore mature themes, including strong language and adult content.
Special performances include an AUSLAN-interpreted show on October 15 and an audio-described performance with a tactile tour on October 17, ensuring accessibility for all audiences.
Operation Boomerang explores universal themes of family, aging, and cultural identity, all through the lens of Aboriginal culture. Through humour and heart, Bruce Denny reminds us of the significance of returning to Country, both as a physical place and as a spiritual home. The question of where one’s soul should be at the end of life is treated with respect, compassion, and a touch of irreverence, making it thought-provoking and deeply moving, while still wickedly hilarious.
