Malthouse Theatre is gearing up to host one of the most innovative theatrical experiences Melbourne has seen, with the highly anticipated Australian premiere of ECHO: Every Cold-Hearted Oxygen. From 14 to 19 July, audiences will be treated to a unique series of unrehearsed, never-to-be-repeated performances at the Merlyn Theatre.
Straight from its celebrated run at London’s Royal Court Theatre, Iranian playwright Nassim Soleimanpour’s latest creation promises a transcendent and unpredictable experience. Known for his signature ‘cold read’ style, where performers encounter the script for the very first time on stage, Soleimanpour’s work has attracted some of the most renowned acting talent in the world. For this Melbourne season, a stellar cast of Australian media and entertainment personalities will join the creative experiment.
A Star-Studded Line-Up
Taking on the challenge of ECHO are seven extraordinary performers, each stepping into the spotlight for a solo performance. Audiences can look forward to seeing actors Ben Lawson, Pia Miranda, and Nadine Garner; comedian Michelle Brasier; journalists Jan Fran and Stan Grant; and presenter and musical theatre legend David Campbell. With no rehearsals, no prior knowledge of the script, and guided live on stage by Soleimanpour, these performers are guaranteed to deliver moments of raw emotion, whimsy, and spontaneity.
“It’s the unpredictability of this style of performance that I find so thrilling,” reveals Soleimanpour. “It’s the most alive theatre can get. Imagine watching a football match and already knowing who would score and when. It’d be less fun. That’s why we don’t want to spoil it!”
A Collaboration Across Continents
Described as a “long-distance magic show”, ECHO pairs cutting-edge technology with live theatre. Soleimanpour will collaborate with each performer live from Berlin, joined by Italian-Palestinian director Omar Elerian, who also helmed the play’s London debut.
“With Nassim’s plays, there’s always a certain level of secrecy because the actors shouldn’t read or see a production beforehand,” explains Elerian. “It’s essential to preserving that sense of freshness. We think Melbourne is really going to love that sense of discovery.”
The onstage magic is supported by an exceptional creative team, including video and production designer Derek Richards, lighting designer Jackie Shemesh, sound designer Anna Clock, and script editor Stewart Pringle. Together, they create an immersive environment where the audience is as much a part of the experience as the performer.
Innovation Meets Connection
Audiences have marvelled at how Soleimanpour’s creations build bridges between performer, playwright, and spectator. Known for works like White Rabbit, Red Rabbit and NASSIM, he expertly breaks down theatrical conventions, creating a shared human experience that is equal parts intimate and profound.
Perhaps even more compelling is how ECHO uses technology to transcend distance. Whether it’s Soleimanpour guiding from Berlin or the rich visual and auditory world crafted on stage, the production carries a universal sense of connection. It’s a theatre experience that not only entertains but also provokes thought about empathy and collaboration in our increasingly digital world.
Don’t Miss the Melbourne Season
Running for a limited season at the Malthouse Theatre’s Merlyn Theatre from 14 to 19 July, ECHO is a must-see for fans of bold, boundary-pushing theatre. With its unique format, powerhouse cast, and innovative spirit, this Australian premiere promises to leave a lasting impression.
Grab your tickets now and prepare to experience the magic of ECHO—a performance style where anything can happen. Be part of a fleeting moment of theatrical alchemy that will never be repeated.
For tickets and more information, visit malthousetheatre.com.au.