The River That Ran Uphill

Based on Ni-Vanuatu man Edgell Junior's lived experience of Cyclone Pam and its aftermath, this moving production emphasises the importance of community cooperation and resilience.

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.

The duration of this event is 45 minutes.

Event duration is a guide only and may be subject to change.

Suitable for all ages 8+

Lighting effects, haze and smoke effects.

A space for storytelling, this room in the Sydney Opera House often plays host to productions for younger audiences, dance and experimental theatrical experiences.

All Sydney Opera House foyers are pram accessible, with lifts to the main and western foyers. The public lift to all foyers is accessible from the corridor near the escalators on the Lower Concourse and also in the Western Foyer via the corridor on the Ground Level (at the top of the escalators). Pram parking will be available outside the theatres in the Western Foyer.