Yirra Yaakin are getting ready for their first production of the year Which Way Home from playwright Katie Beckett. It’ll play for a limited season in the intimate studio space at Subiaco Arts Centre from 28 April to 9 May.
The play follows Tash and her Dad who are going on a road trip. Home to Country – where the sky is higher, and the world stretches out forever. It’s a long way from the wide streets and big old houses of Tash’s childhood. Two black faces in a very white suburb. Dad still reckons he’s the King of Cool, but he’s an old fella now. This time, it’s Tash who’s behind the wheel – taking him home.
Featuring real-life father and daughter and much loved Yirra Yaakin performers Derek and Shaquita Nannup, this personal story offers profound insight into father–daughter relationships and challenges traditional ideas of parenthood.
Originally written as her first play, Beckett drew on her own experience growing up with her single Aboriginal father after the loss of her mother at a young age.
“He deserved to know how much I really care for him and how much I appreciate everything that he’s done,” Beckett says. “My mum died when I was five years old, so my dad has taken on the role of both mother and father and has given me so much.”
She added, “When something comes from the heart and it’s honest and truthful, that’s something you can’t hide. I gave my heart over to a piece of paper — and people have connected with that. We all want unconditional love from our family. Who doesn’t love love?”
Which Way Home is infused with humour and heart resonating across generations. This is a heartfelt play and a moving exploration of family, identity and home.
Which Way Home was first produced by ILBIJERRI Theatre Company in association with Belvoir St Theatre & Sydney Festival in 2017.
