Four Deaths in the Life of Ronaldo Abok

 The debate raging in Australian politics over refugees is full of shouted rhetoric. It is usually reduced to a simple question of  ‘policy’ and the people who are most affected by these decisions are forgotten and their stories never told. What is missing most from public discourse and politics are the rich, real stories of struggle, hope and humanity that new Australians always have.

 Presented by: True West TheatreVenue: Parramatta Riverside Theatres Friday 18th November 2011
The debate raging in Australian politics over refugees is full of shouted rhetoric. It is usually reduced to a simple question of  ‘policy’ and the people who are most affected by these decisions are forgotten and their stories never told. What is missing most from public discourse and politics are the rich, real stories of struggle, hope and humanity that new Australians always have.
Four Deaths in the Life of Ronaldo Abok goes a long way in pulling back the curtain on the experiences of people moving from war-torn nations, such as Sudan, to a new, seemingly peaceful life in Australia and the opportunities and challenges they face when they arrive. Not only does it celebrate the lives of the Sudanese people, it puts a human face on these issues that can often seem a million miles away. The play uses the stories of the actors and their families and friends to tell a larger story. Through months of workshops, these stories were skillfully crafted together into a colourful, energetic piece of theatre by playwright, Ian Meadows.
The central character, Ronaldo, is an aspiring filmmaker struggling to find his voice in Australia. He looks to his past, escaping from Sudan with his Aunt and Uncle, to draw inspiration and improve his storytelling. What emerges is an exciting blend of cultural experiences. Knowing that some of the actors have spent nine years in refugee camps only adds to the authenticity of the work. 
The characters’ experiences in Australia are mixed with their cloudy memories of the past. It is a beautifully crafted piece that presents intriguing characters with honesty, hope and a great dash of humour. The characters are never presented as victims of their circumstances, but rather as strong people who are trying to live their lives in the best way possible.
Johnson Ngor is brilliant as Ronaldo. He has great comic timing and his connection to the work serves him well in the most dramatic moments. Amer Achiek plays Ronaldo’s romantic interest, Rachel, with flair and maturity beyond her years. Awek Akech and Abraham Ajok, as Ronaldo’s Aunt and Uncle are wonderful, with great presence, and clear authority.
If ever a play could remind us of the power of storytelling to change perceptions, Four Deaths in the Life of Ronaldo Abok would be it. It gives the audience a glimpse into the lives of people that we may struggle to understand. The audience is drawn into the intimate moments of the characters lives, and is reminded of the universal nature of humanity in a time when Australians desperately need it. Bookings: 

 Dates & Times:7:30pm, Thursday 17 November [Preview]7:30pm, Friday 18 November [Opening]7:30pm, Saturday 19 November 7:30pm, Tuesday 22 November1pm, Wednesday 23 November 7:30pm, Wednesday 23 November7:30pm, Thursday 24 November7:30pm, Friday 25 November7:30pm, Saturday 26 November