The Deep North
Posted on: Thu 18 Mar 2021
The first production of it’s kind in Australia, sold-out Fringe show The Deep North is a celebration of the African Australian diaspora.
Developed by hip-hop artist Gabriel ‘DyspOra’ Akon, MC Stephen Tongun, poet, dancer and singer Pontshu Nthupi, and playwright Matt Hawkins, it combines hip-hop, afro-beat, R’nB, installation art, animation, theatre and other media.
“I’m very passionate about paving the way and telling stories that are unique to us as African Australians,” Stephen Tongun says.
Presented by South Australian Playwrights Theatre, the show explores the meaning of home and finding your voice through Jasmine Mutesa, the protagonist, who has to choose between supporting her family in Port Augusta and taking up an opportunity at a prestigious Adelaide school.
Stephen Tongun talks to us about how the show developed, the challenges and joys, and what we can look forward to from this versatile team.
Image supplied
Produced by Anisha Pillarisetty
