Bennelong in London

“Bennelong in London” is a compelling new play by acclaimed writer Jane Harrison, presented at the Sydney Theatre Company (STC) in Sydney. The production delves into the multifaceted life and legacy of Woollarawarre Bennelong, a Wangal man who famously travelled to England with Governor Arthur Phillip in 1793. Harrison's play aims to re-examine Bennelong's story, which has often been interpreted through a colonial lens, by exploring his motivations, experiences abroad, and his eventual return to his homeland.

Directed by STC resident director Ian Michael, the play employs an innovative narrative structure. It features a modern-day actor, Sebastian, who is preparing for an audition to play Bennelong. In his efforts to understand the historical figure, Sebastian inadvertently summons Bennelong’s spirit, allowing for a dynamic dialogue between past and present. This device not only unearths historical truths and tensions but also explores contemporary themes of Blak cultural and artistic expression, ensuring the story resonates with current Aboriginal urban lives.

Harrison's research for the play involved extensive study of biographies and academic articles, complemented by her personal experience of living in a foreign country without language, mirroring Bennelong's journey. The play strives to flesh out a three-dimensional character from Bennelong, drawing inspiration from Aboriginal men in Harrison's own life to counteract the biases of colonial records. It is a work that is both playful and profound, tackling the harder aspects of history while offering an insightful and empathetic portrayal of Bennelong.