Sons and Mothers

Damien Turbin’s mum was told that he wouldn’t  eat, walk or talk. She gave up her work and for his first four years virtually lived by his hospital bedside. Hers is just one of the stories of love and self-sacrifice told by Sons & Mothers, an exceptionally moving performance by Alirio Zavarce and the No Strings Attached Theatre of Disability. You can’t help but be swept up by these very simple, strong, human emotions characterised by the bonds between these very likeable young men and their Mums, who end up needing to be exceptionally angelic, advocating for their children under difficult circumstances, defending them when they were ostracised or abused, and dealing with difficult health and behaviour issues. It invokes that universal, primal human tie between mother and child.

It makes for gorgeous, heart-warming, delightful, engaging theatre. The disabled sons tell their stories one by one, with Zavarce facilitating, encouraging the sons to use their own words and expressions, so we feel we get to know each one personally and celebrate their successes. The mothers appear in film form, and there is plenty of music and movement around the stage. Many of the audience were wiping their eyes on the way out. If you want to watch something that will make you feel better about life, do catch this.

Cathy Bannister - reviewed at The Q, Queanbeyan Arts Centre on September 13, 2014

Previously revewed at The Arts Centre, Gold Coast on September 9 by Roger McKenzie.

I have just enjoyed a wonderful piece of theatre, featuring six talented men who have turned their disability into their ability to entertain.

Under the guidance writer, director, performer and mentor Alirio Zavarce, they shared the special relationship each has or had with his mother – several of whom appear on film during the performance.

All six performers also collaborated on their individual stories, bringing a special affection and their own humour to each piece.

The gentlemen: Duncan Luke, Kym Mackenzie, Ryan Rowland, Ricky Samai, Damien Turbin and Ben Wishart performed like seasoned professionals; full of confidence and energy.

No Strings Attached Theatre of Disability is a contemporary theatre company that creates original theatre through the unique perspectives of its disabled performers.

If you are fortunate to catch a performance by this fabulous company you will appreciate just what may be achieved when someone believes in and nurtures the abilities of these performers.

These actors reached for the stars and succeeded!!!!!

Roger McKenzie

Tour Dates.

Wagga Civic Centre

17 September 2014

Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre

20 September 2014

Orange Civic Theatre

24 September 2014

Bathurst Memorial Arts Centre

27 September 2014

Theatre Royal (Hobart)

03-04 October 2014

The Capital

08 October 2014

Portland Arts Centre

11 October 2014

The Chaffey Theatre

18 October 2014

Northern Festival Centre

22 October 2014