The Shepherds

vision

The Shepherds invites audiences into the tumultuous and intriguing world of two sheep navigating the complexities of their existence. Blending dark humour with contemporary dance, this full-length theatre performance theatrically explores intergenerational trauma and the quest for identity within a post-colonial Australian landscape on the brink of environmental collapse. Directors and performers Carly Sheppard and Alisdair Macindoe, both heirs to the Sheppard lineage, challenge traditional narratives through imaginative stories and worlds of their own creation. The performance intricately weaves together a montage of scenarios — from comedic escapades in search of belonging, to a evocative dance that embodies sheep in motion, all a means to engaging in critical dialogues about cultural succession and stewardship. With an experimental score featuring alphorn music, field recordings of sheep colonies, coupled with innovative garment designs using wool and sheepskin, The Shepherds transforms sheep rearing traditions into a riveting performance unpacking urgent cultural issues. Designed for black box theatres and aiming for national touring, it bridges edgy and universal appeal, corralling urbanites and townsfolk audiences alike. Dive deep into a whimsical yet poignant meditation on being lost, looking for guidance, and the shared urge to re-conceptualise broken histories through the eyes of two remarkable sheep.

Process

The artistic team behind "The Shepherds" will engage in a deeply immersive and experimental process to bring this work to life. Carly Sheppard and Alisdair Macindoe will conduct hands-on research, visiting sheep colonies to capture authentic sounds and footage. Experimenting with activities like crafting sheep cheese and creating alphorns, they will further develop these ideas in collaborative studio sessions with the larger team. These diverse influences will inform the choreography, soundscape, and visual design, culminating in a performance that embodies creative exploration and cultural reflection.

IMPACT

"The Shepherds" is bold and ambitious in its multidisciplinary approach, taking substantial cultural risks to create a large-scale work that challenges traditional theatre conventions. By using sheep as protagonists to explore complex themes of identity, intergenerational trauma, and environmental decay, directors Carly Sheppard and Alisdair Macindoe offer a fresh, provocative perspective. The team's nuanced blend of immersive soundscapes, innovative costumes, objects, staging, and experimental crafts ensures a rich, sensory experience that transcends conventional narratives. This artistic interrogation of cultural and environmental issues creates a compelling, evocative piece that resonates on multiple levels, inviting audiences from all walks of life to engage in meaningful contemplation.

SCOPE

Insite Arts will play an instrumental role in supporting "The Shepherds," providing project management, logistical support, and strategic planning. As a seasoned independent producing company, Insite Arts will leverage its extensive network to build a national touring program. By engaging presenters across urban and regional Australia, Insite Arts aims to secure performance opportunities, connecting with arts organizations, festivals, and venues that recognize the project's cultural significance and relatability. Their targeted outreach will highlight the work's bold, multidisciplinary approach, ensuring it captivates diverse audiences and fosters meaningful dialogues.

TEAM

Co-directors, creators, concept, text, choreography & performers: Carly Sheppard* & Alisdair Macindoe*

Instrument design: Alisdair Macindoe* 

Vocal artist / singer: Carly Sheppard*

Set, Costume, Props: Jonathan Oxlade*

Sound design & composition: Laurence English*

Dramaturge & Co-writer: Emily Tomlins*

Lighting Designer: Katie Sfetkidis

Performers / Dancers: Geoffrey Watson + 1 TBC

Producers: Jason Cross & Stella Webster

Production Manager: Zsuzsa Gaynor Minlay

Taxidermy specialist: TBC

*Sydney Myer Creative Fellow