It began as yarning between mates on the porch at home in Queensland, and from that the realisation that many memories and thoughts are held in common, that and the insistence of one of his mates that ‘there was a show in this’ has become the genesis of Mark Sheppard’s show ‘Chasing the Lollyman’.
The show is a humorous look at what it means to be indigenous and gay and how ultimately whatever the differences between our individual stories we all connect on a larger stage.
The show doesn’t make light of Indigenous culture and beliefs but looks past the emblems we associate with indigenous culture such as the didgeridoo and painting in ochre. As Mark states you won’t see them in this production. We are instead asked to consider how a Murri family would fit into the neighbourhood of Ramsay Street, and the advent of our first indigenous PM!
Mark is bringing ‘Chasing the Lollyman’ to Tasmania and will also have some time to explore our state. It is Mark’s first visit to Tassie and he tells me it has always intrigued him, whether it is the exciting possibility of our delicious produce, the awe inspiring nature of our forests and just the delight of discovery.
Working on the belief that laughter is the best medicine Mark will treat us to ‘black fella’ humour and will demonstrate the fact he is a triple threat, actor, dancer and singer who has composed his own music including a respectful song for lost cousins or as he calls them brothers.
In his one man show he attempts to blur the boundaries and dismiss the political correctness that has somehow consumed most of our lives.
It all goes back to community days and festivals when the community would bring food and music and their yarns along for celebration. On these days the image of his uncle in a makeshift hessian sack coat, which he would decorate with lollies is vivid to Mark as is the image of children chasing the Lollyman for a sweet treat. That image although not present anymore at such community events proves a fitting metaphor for Mark, his chasing of his dream and the sweet success he now enjoys.
Mark as his name suggests is a ‘shepherd’ in leading us to realise that although we have different backgrounds and cultures our experiences, memories and reflections are for the most part held in common.
You can see Mark perform in ‘Chasing the Lollyman’ at the Theatre Royal 5-8 September at 7pm.
Paula Xiberras
