This September, Campbelltown Arts Centre will host the world premiere of My First and Last Solo Show, a moving and often hilariously funny new work by acclaimed Western Sydney artist Natalie Rose.
Originally intended to be Rose’s first attempt at creating a performance alone, the project quickly became something else when her daughter Mabelle stepped into the rehearsal room and onto the stage.
What emerged is an intimate, inventive collaboration between mother and daughter exploring memory, family, love and the stories we carry across generations.
Blending live performance with family archives and recorded voices, My First and Last Solo Show follows three generations of women: Natalie, Mabelle and Natalie’s mother Cheryl.
Produced by Performing Lines, the work reflects on motherhood, intergenerational trauma, and the profound ways our relationships shape who we become.
“When Mabelle turned 12, I realised how young I was when major events in my own childhood began,’’ says Ms Rose.
“I wanted to create something extraordinary for her.’’
Their collaboration is central to the work.
“Working with Mabelle has been incredibly beautiful and so much fun,’’ she says.
“We love being silly together, challenging each other and making things together. Watching her grow through this process has been remarkable.’’
Developed over several years, the project also took on new resonance following Cheryl’s diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, bringing questions of memory, loss and legacy into sharp focus.
At its heart, My First and Last Solo Show is a celebration of the everyday moments that connect us.
“I think this show is for anyone who has a mum, is a mum, or has ever loved someone deeply,’’ says Ms Rose. “Sometimes the moments we remember most aren’t the big ones. They might just be a trip through the drive-thru together. And that’s kind of beautiful.’’
My First and Last Solo Show performance dates:
Thursday 17 September, 7:30pm (invite only)
Friday 18 September, 1:00pm (with Q&A) and 7:30pm
Saturday 19 September, 1:00pm and 7:30pm
