Drizzle Boy is a new play by Australian playwright Ryan Enniss, produced by Queensland Theatre after winning the Queensland Premier's Drama award for 2022-2023. This work has been written about neurodiversity by a neurodiverse playwright and starring a neurodiverse actor in the title role. The central storytelling device of a raked and revolving blue disc was deeply connected to Drizzle Boy's psyche and persona. The rhythms of this moving set were able to shift with the dramaturgy, with the precise and controlled movements desired by Drizzle Boy ultimately betraying him with their chaotic and unpredictable nature. The combination of scenographic elements also uniquely attempted to both simulate the discomfort of an overwhelming sensory environment whilst allowing neurodiverse audience members to adjust their experience through a warning system embedded within the design. • The production was awarded Best Production at the Matilda Awards, a Queensland based industry awards. The production is set to tour Canberra and Queensland in late 2024.
NTRO Output Category
- Original Creative Work : Design / architectural Work
Place
Brisbane, AustraliaVenue
Billie Brown StudioNTRO Publisher
Queensland TheatreStart Date
2023-03-31End Date
2023-03-31Medium
DesigningResearch Statement
Drizzle Boy is a new play by Australian playwright Ryan Enniss, produced by Queensland Theatre after winning the Queensland Premier's Drama award for 2022-2023. This work has been written about neurodiversity by a neurodiverse playwright and starring a neurodiverse actor in the title role.
The central revolving rake has connections to Drizzle Boy's persona, with rhythmic shifts reflecting the dramaturgy. The precise and controlled movements he desires ultimately betray him with their increasing chaotic and unpredictable nature. The combination of scenographic elements attempted to both simulate the discomfort of an overwhelming sensory environment whilst allowing neurodiverse audience members to adjust their experience through a warning system embedded within the design.
The excellence of this work is evidenced by:
• The producing company, Queensland Theatre, is the state theatre company of Queensland and a member of the Australian Major Performing Arts Group, receiving both federal and state arts funding.
• The production received a broad range of critical reviews from major national publications, notably from ArtsHub by Suzanne Conway, Blue Curtains Brisbane by Meredith Walker, Courier Mail by Phil Brown and Limelight Magazine by Elise Lawrence.
• The production was awarded Best Production at the Matilda Awards, a Queensland based industry awards.
• The production is set to tour Canberra and Queensland in late 2024.Size or Duration of Work
One act play, 1 hour 50 mins duration, 21 performancesAffiliation
Christina Smith, University of Melbourne
