“Inverell’s just smashed the record for the biggest audience since the show began,” Sandy McNaughton from the Inverell Cultural Group said. She said many found the subject matter close to the bone, but cathartic.

Around 60 people attended the Town Hall show, which was the first live theatre production hosted by the group. 

On a journey in the Amazon, the story focuses on a woman (Noelle, played by Jane) facing her father’s mortality, and explores their connection, love of literature and passion for adventure.

“This story, it is a beautiful story. It sounds like a sad story, and of course there are some heartbreaking moments, but it’s also very funny and very witty and adventurous,” Jane said.

“It’s a reminisce of all the things that they share as father, daughter, and that starts with a love of literature and maps and the idea of exploring the world, through both the imaginary and the real.”

Jane relishes the opportunity to carry the play, which is a monologue told in a simple set filled with books and and tiny boats. 

“It’s storytelling at its most basic and fundamental level. It’s great,” she said.

“It takes lots of energy, and it’s really exciting.” She said that a monologue transforms the audience into another character, as the actor puts all of their attention on them. 

“You’re kind of reading and receiving from them, which is a really great exchange,” Jane said.

“Always, for me, it’s about the story. Whatever that story is and whoever I am in that as part of an ensemble or otherwise. In this, you really are completely in control of telling that story.”

Sandy felt the duality of the Noelle’s trip to the Amazon and her father’s illness made for a powerful experience.

“I thought the performance was beautifully restrained,” she said.

Jane is deeply familiar with the piece, which she first performed in King’s Cross two years ago, and describes it as “a treat” in its masterful use of language and description.

A touring veteran who travelled most of the country over her years with Political Theatre Company 1.0, Jane was thrilled to have the opportunity to visit regional areas with production company Critical Stages. 

“It’s really fantastic that Inverell’s jumped on board and wanted to do this,” she said.

“Congratulations to Inverell and Critical Stages for getting it out there.” 

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