The Drill

Women's Circus presents The Drill.

"You can no more win a war than you can win an earthquake." - Jeannette Rankin

The Footscray Drill Hall was built in 1914 to facilitate compulsory military training for men and boys aged 12 to 26 years old. Dozens of Footscray locals volunteered at the Drill Hall and these men became one of the first companies sent into battle in World War One - E Company. Soon they would find themselves in one of Australia’s bloodiest battles; Gallipoli. Most of the company of 250 did not return...and Footscray became a city in mourning.

A century later, Melbourne's much lauded Women's Circus invites audiences to a bold new feminist circus work, sharing untold stories of war through the lens of those left behind. Disappear into the world of 1914 for a surreal journey that blurs the lines between contemporary circus, immersive theatre, historical re-imagining, and art installation.

Created and performed by over sixty Women’s Circus members and artists, The Drill uncovers buried stories of the site's history to explore the far reaching effects of war on communities. Running from 21 November to 1 December, and playing as a part of the 2019 Due West Festival, this powerful new work takes a compelling look at this historical space.

Women’s Circus is a not for profit arts organisation offering a year round circus and performance training program and producing socially engaged arts projects for women, trans and non-binary people and their communities. It is a proudly feminist organisation dedicated to individual well-being and community connectedness.

Devised and performed by Women's Circus members
Creative Direction by Penelope Bartlau
Circus Direction by Katy Burrows
Design by Emily Barrie
Sound Design by Kelly Anne Kimber
Lighting Design by Georgina Wolfe
Head Rigger and Rigging Design by Franca Stadler
Produced by Devon Taylor
Production Manager: Beth Weatherly
Stage Manager: Emma Telford

The Drill is proudly supported by Maribyrnong City Council and Creative Victoria.

Bookings: 03 9687 3665 and online.

Content warning: Themes, images and sounds of war. Some loud noises.

Please note: This is a non-conventional performance with voluntary participatory elements. Audience members will move throughout the performance sites and be guided through the space so we encourage you to avoid bringing bulky items. Seating available. Chill out space available.