After taking Brisbane by storm, the immersive theatre production, Love Lust Lost, is now showing in Melbourne. This multisensory experience by Broad Encounters has taken over The Austral in Collingwood, a historic theatre from the 1920s. Hop aboard the E.V. Nautilus, and descend into an underwater theatrical playground. Explore over 40 intricately designed spaces across three floors, spanning over 1900 square metres. Go at your own pace, and become active participants in the story. Love Lust Lost is now showing, with tickets on sale until December 16.
Love Lust Lost
This adults-only adventure features a multi-layered plot, with thematic nods to Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea, Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Mermaid and Heart of Darkness. Follow nine characters, and the lengths they will go to in pursuit of love and lust. This immersive performance is like no other, featuring music, spoken word, dance, circus, soundscapes and even scent. With secret rooms, hidden bars, and puzzles to solve, no two experiences will be the same.
According to Kirsten Siddle, founder of Broad Encounters and co-writer of Love Lust Lost, The Austral itself is a character in its own right. “Having started its life as a beloved picture house, dance hall and theatre in 1921, it feels very special to be able to give the treasured building a farewell that honours its roots before it takes on a new life with future developers,” she said.
About the experience
From the moment you descend into the sea, you’re encouraged to go at your own pace in this choose-your-own-adventure experience. The first decision is simple. Left or right? Follow the mysterious Captain Anderson into a shimmering subterranean world, or chart your own course.
The cast of eight incredible actors are trained in aerial acrobatics, circus, physical theatre, music, ballet, contemporary dance, theatre and improvisational comedy. Leading the team is Sandro Colarelli as the charismatic Captain Anderson. Cabaret artists Meg Hickey joins him as Salacia, with aerialist Bri Emrich as the Captain’s daughter Sandy. Meanwhile, musician Chloe Towan plays Sandy’s confidant, Claude, and physical theatre specialist Sho Eba plays the mysterious Trink. The Chef who knows too much is played by interdisciplinary performance artist Kristian Šantić, while Chan the Narcissist is played by contemporary dancer Jeremy Lloyd. Finally, the mystical Sea Creature is played by dancer Callum Mooney.
You may choose to follow a certain character, or someone might call you out, and beckon you to join them in strange experiences. As you explore the space, you’ll be sure to encounter plenty of surprises, like bubble-filled rooms and more. During your journey, you might be invited to consume food and drink, but do so at your own risk.
The performance runs from 75 to 90 minutes. Be sure to grab a drink from the bar for a bit of Dutch courage before your journey. There’s plenty of options, like themed cocktails, spirits, wine and more. You can also hang out at the bar to decompress after the show.