Claire Della and the Moon

Any platform that brings the subject of mental illness to the forefront of conversation deserves an audience. The timing of this latest production is perfect, as we deal with a global pandemic and the frailties that it has unleashed. With plenty of material aimed at an adult audience, it is refreshing to see a child’s perspective and journey represented.

Jamie Hornsby and Ellen Graham, who make up ‘Madness of Two’, have created a gentle and poignant tale of a child’s battle with anxiety and depression. It is a visually stunning and alluring story that kept their young audience transfixed. Using puppetry, mime, poetry and music ensured sensory enjoyment and understanding of the moving story.

Graham plays Claire Della, the protagonist in search of peace and safety, and she captures the necessary innocence, her own experiences contributing to an authentic portrayal full of light and dark moments.

Claire Della finds what she is looking for on the moon in the form of Laika, a dog, represented by a puppet. Designed by Stephanie Fisher, and operated by Hornsby, it is simply mesmerizing to watch Laika come to life and help to steer Della home.

Hornsby and Graham enlisted the help of psychologist Simon Andrews during the early phases of the show’s creation to add depth to the narrative. Both artists also had the opportunity to work with Adelaide based theatre company Slingsby, renowned for thought-provoking productions aimed at children.

Director Shannon Rush steers this tight ship sensitively, allowing the multi-talented duo to shine. Captivating lighting by Mark Oakley establishes the right ambience, while Hornsby’s score is a thoughtful composition.

The important subject matter of this beautiful piece of theatre should be discussed in schools, so I can only hope that touring primary schools is on the agenda.

Kudos to Hornsby and Graham. This project leaves an impression on young and old audiences alike.

Kerry Cooper