The River That Ran Uphill
As told by Edgell Junior and Slingsby

25 – 27 July 2024

In the Playhouse

Kids & Families

Ages 8+ | In 2015, Cyclone Pam ravaged the South Pacific. Edgell Junior, a Ni-Vanuatu man from Pentecost Island experienced and survived Cyclone Pam and its aftermath. Based on his lived experience, this moving production emphasises the importance of community cooperation and resilience.

A unique and brave piece of theatre with a courageous actor who leads this devastating story to its climax.

Glam Adelaide

Do you know the story of the river that ran uphill?

A tiny girl finds the strength to survive the wildest of winds and raging rivers in this triumphant true tale from South Australia’s own trailblazing theatre company Slingsby.

With a cyclone at its centre, brought to life through the magic of theatre,  this is a story of the collision between nature and humanity set in the Pacific Islands. Our young protagonist demonstrates courage in the face of adversity to remind us how important it is to come together as a community in our weakest moments.

The River That Ran Uphill will drop you right in the eye of the storm. It’s a story that shows how the seemingly impossible can become possible when we work together. As the waters rise, this story carries forward a message of warning and, perhaps, a raft of hope.

Presented by Sydney Opera House and Slingsby

Watch the trailer

An Interview with Edgell Junior

Other information

You may also like

Pirates Love Underpants

4 – 12 Jan 2026

Ahoy, mateys! Set sail on a hilarious quest for the legendary Pants of Gold in Pirates Love Underpants, based on the bestselling book by Claire Freedman and Ben Cort. It’s a swashbuckling, underpants-loving adventure for the whole family!

  • Kids & Families
  • Theatre

Rothar

14 – 18 Jan 2026

In the little bike shop at the end of town, a world of adventure awaits. Miquel and Moisés arrive for work in a bicycle repair shop, which quickly becomes a workshop of their imagination. Adventures follow the two boys as they create scenarios, spark joy and transform everyday objects from their small bike shop to imaginatively travel to places they can only dream of. Through Branar’s gorgeous design, brilliant physical comedy and the power of play, discover where creativity can take us. Come on a bicycle ride through the imagination with Rothar!

  • Kids & Families
  • Theatre

Murmur

3 – 8 Oct 2025

Direct from Europe, Murmur is both circus and sound theatre for families. Daringly, it plays with all the senses - with rustling sound backpacks, a landscape of speakers and an acrobatic composer!

  • Kids & Families
  • Circus
  • Theatre

Checking availability