Aliwa! facts for kids
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| Author | Dallas Winmar |
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| Cover artist | Kate Florance |
| Country | Australia |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Play |
| Publisher | Currency Press |
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Publication date
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2002 |
| Media type | Print (Paperback) |
| ISBN | 978-0-86819-688-6 |
Aliwa! is an important play written by Dallas Winmar, an Indigenous Australian playwright. It was published in 2002 by Currency Press. This play tells a powerful story that connects with Australian history.
About the Play's Story
The play Aliwa! is based on a true story. It follows a mother who is trying very hard to keep her three daughters safe. Her husband has passed away, and now officials want to take her children away. This part of the story reflects a sad time in Australian history known as the Stolen Generations. During this period, many Indigenous children were forcibly removed from their families by government policies.
The play was later performed by a theatre group called Company B. It was directed by Neil Armfield. Famous actors like Ningali Lawford, Kylie Belling, and Deborah Mailman starred in the show. One of the real-life sisters the play is based on, Aunty Dot Collard, even introduced the performance.
First Performance of Aliwa!
Aliwa! was first shown to an audience by the Yirra Yaakin Noongar Theatre company. This happened in Perth, Australia, on July 26, 2000, at the Subiaco Theatre.
The talented cast for this first production included:
- Mum / Alice, Dot, Reserve Boy: Rachael Maza
- Judith, School Teacher: Irma Woods
- Ethel, Native Welfare Officer: Kylie Farmer
The creative team behind the scenes included:
- Director: Lynette Narkle
- Designer: Tish Oldham
- Sound and original music: David Milroy
- Lighting Designer: Mark Howett
Awards and Recognition
Aliwa! has received several awards and honors for its important story and powerful message.
In 2002, the play won the Kate Challis RAKA Award. It was also considered for the 2002 Western Australian Premier's Book Awards. In 2003, it was a finalist for the Louis Esson Prize for Drama at the Victorian Premier's Literary Awards. These awards show how much the play was valued for its writing and impact.
