The Geelong-made work locals are seeing for the first time

IT was filmed in a North Geelong factory and made with the help of local volunteers, but most Geelong audiences have never had the chance to see it.

That is now changing, with Back to Back Theatre’s CHARGE! Agincourt receiving its first public presentation in the company’s hometown at Geelong Arts Centre.

The free exhibition, running until 22 June, comprises a 23-minute screen work that reimagines Shakespeare’s Henry V, shifting the famous Battle of Agincourt from medieval France to an industrial factory floor.

Back to Back Theatre’s CHARGE! Agincourt reimagines Shakespeare’s Henry V on a factory floor. Photo: Tao Weis.

Using cardboard armour and improvised weapons, the production follows England’s young king as he attempts to inspire an exhausted army facing overwhelming odds, while exploring broader questions about power, conflict and identity.

More than 100 community members joined Back to Back’s core ensemble in bringing the project to life.

More than 100 community members joined Back to Back Theatre in creating CHARGE! Agincourt. Photo: Tao Weis.

“Exhibiting CHARGE! means we get to showcase a screen work shaped by the dedication of many,” Bruce Gladwin, Back to Back Theatre co-chief executive and artistic director, said.

“Their imagination and effort came together to create a screen work we’re really proud of. We’re excited to share it with audiences nationally and internationally.”

Cardboard armour and inventive design are among the striking visual elements that define the work. Photo: Tao Weis.

Founded in Geelong, Back to Back Theatre has built an international reputation for work that challenges assumptions about disability, performance and society. In 2024, the company received the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement in Theatre at the Venice Biennale, one of the highest honours in international theatre.

The exhibition is touring through ACMI, Australia’s national museum of screen culture, after being commissioned by the organisation.

ACMI curator Emily Sexton said Agincourt reflected many of the qualities that had defined Back to Back Theatre’s work over decades.

Back to Back Theatre’s ensemble performers have helped establish the Geelong company as one of the world’s most respected contemporary theatre makers. Photo: Tao Weis.

Power dynamics closely examined, precision in design, process and construction plainly revealed, pacing and stillness in performance clearly deployed … these are just some of the hallmarks of Back to Back’s globally renowned practice, and they are also key to creating the powerful impact we witness in Agincourt,” she said.

CHARGE! Agincourt will screen every 30 minutes during opening hours until 22 June at Geelong Arts Centre’s The Open House theatre.

Learn more at geelongartscentre.org.au