Dark Stars | A POIGNANT TALE FULL OF BLACK HUMOUR
In seeking his big break, an unlucky American actor is propelled by misfortune to a tiny island in the Pacific, where he unearths the forgotten story of Australia’s most popular black entertainer of the 19th century, Irving Sayles.
Dark Stars weaves together the story of these two African-American performers in an examination of racist humour and the price paid for lusting after fame at the cost of one’s dignity…
“A dazzling star turn by Jonathan Council” Julianne Evans, Gulf News
“An earnest and endearing performance” Nik Smythe, Theatrereview New Zealand
Breaking News: Dark Stars has just been nominated for BEST PLAY at Fringeworld!
Written and directed by
Arthur Meek
Performed by
Jonathan Council
Feedback/Comments
Entertaining and poignant, a charming bitter sweet show.
Great show very interesting history of black performers
Thoroughly enjoyed the portrayal of these two parallel lives cleverly woven together ,one hundred years apart. Jonathan Council was fantastic , switching characters and staying true to their identities. It was honest, thought provoking,moving,inspirational,enriching and being a newcomer to live theatre , an educational experience for me. My friend who I invited along was brought to tears by the performance.
the one hour show was well written and well acted. well done Jonathan
small crowd. Actor well received
The premise was interesting and engaging ... some of the comedic lines, not so ... some of the dialogue was difficult to catch (at times). I believe it will get better with each performance.
An engaging performance where Council portrays many characters with ease. The ending is warmly affirming.
My friend and I saw this fabulous one man show last night (Saturday 23/2/13) and we were both enthralled with Jonathan Council’s impeccable performance.
We really enjoyed the show and would thoroughly recommend it – a great story too.
Many thanks to On-The-House for the opportunity.
The lead actor is very strong and the tale provides an interesting comparison between the journey of two African American men a 100 years apart! The length of this performance is perfect as the show was not strong enough to hold interest for any longer! The brief overview of each event in their lives made it difficult to get immersed in their lives and made me feel that perhaps there just wasn't enough to tell to make a truly interesting performance!
Good show. Very interesting subject material and an engaging performance.
Jonathan's portrayal of Irving Sayles was an interesting contrast to his own story.
Played with conviction, it was a riveting and emotive performance.
Very talented and really interesting unknown story.