A young girl grows up in a remote village in Croatia. At bedtime her beloved grandmother tells her stories of a man sailing the high seas seeking 'paradise' for his family. This man - her father - is a stranger to her. When her grandmother suddenly dies, her life is turned upside down. The money her father had been sending dries up leaving her family to survive on scraps. Perhaps her father has found a new wife, a new family? Trapped in a one-roomed house with her mother, sisters and alcoholic grandfather, the wild violets of Croatia become her only comfort in a childhood beset by cruelty, hunger and poverty.
Based on interviews with Josipa's mother Ivica, Melita Rowston has written a cabaret that captures the hardship and absurdities of life in Vrsi, Croatia and the bravery of a father who went on a risky journey across the seas to create a better life for his family.
While considered by some as a common weed, the beauty and resilience of ljubi?ica, the wild violet, becomes the enduring symbol for Ivica's journey.
Experience an evocative evening of spirited Croatian music that transcends culture and language. These emotionally charged Sevdalinka, Be?arac and Klapa songs will transport you to a faraway place evoking tears of nostalgia and laughter.
Ljubi?ica - Wild Violet stars award-winning performer Josipa Draisma (Best Music Award Sydney Fringe & Best Sydney Comedy Festival Emerging Comedian). Written and directed by 2016 STC Patrick White Award finalist Melita Rowston, accompanied by gypsy jazz trio Michael O'Donnell (Violin/Guitar), Crystal Moloney (Accordion) and Mara Knezevic (Vocals).
LJUBICICA - WILD VIOLET
VENUE: The Butterfly Club
5 Carson Place (off Lt Collins St)
DATES: 21 - 26 June
TIME: 8.30pm (60 min)
TICKETS: thebutterflyclub.com
Full: $36 / Concession: $34 / Groups 6+ $30
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