Saving Footy, Bringing Change: “The Merger” at the Rex

If the North-Central Football League put the words “merger” and “footy” together in one sentence, there would be an immediate reaction. Why is this happening, who is being merged and can we stop this?

Rest assured. This is only a preamble to the Rex live show, “The Merger”, kicking off on stage on Sunday, May 9.

The Regional Arts Victoria (RAV) show evolved via performer Damian Callinan, whose ability to connect with country audiences and use his multi-layered acting style, was commissioned through a partnership between RAV and Vic Health to write a show that might subtly deal with issues of racism in regional communities. The result was “The Merger”.

Premiering at the Adelaide Fringe (2010), the play then toured Australia as momentum built towards a film adaptation, which has had wide acclaim. Damian Callinan, now returns to the original script, bringing his one-man show to Charlton. 

The story starts off with a familiar feel. In the Bodgy Creek township, the dysfunctional Roosters Footy Club is in trouble and will either have to fold or merge with its arch rivals, the Hudson’s Flat Cougars. (Feel free to substitute local clubs to gauge the level of calamity!)  But prodigal son coach Troy Carrington (Callinan) has other ideas; to save the club he embarks on a program to recruit refugees, and unwittingly takes the community on a journey of change.

Classed as “one of the country’s finest character comedians” (“Herald Sun”), Callinan plays every role with a nuanced deftness in this standout show presented by Hey Boss management and production team.

Supported by Restart Investment to Sustain and Expand (RISE) Fund – an Australian Government initiative – “The Merger” tackles a diversity of themes ranging from racism to asylum seekers, through to community and sport (AFL).

Nominated on the 2021 VCE Drama playlist, the live performance of “The Merger” is a “must-see”, not only for students, but as a commentary on rural attitudes towards diversity and change.

• Please note: “The Merger” is a Sunday evening performance.

“The Merger” — live on stage – Sunday, May 9,at 8 p.m.. Tickets: $20 Bookings: https://events.humanitix.com/the-merger