The River That Ran Uphill

Do you know the story of the river that ran uphill? With a cyclone at its centre, this is a story of the collision between nature and humanity set in the Pacific Islands. A young protagonist demonstrates courage in the face of adversity to remind us how important it is to come together as a community in the weakest moments. It’s a story that shows audiences, young and old, how the seemingly impossible can become possible when everyone works together.

In 2015, Cyclone Pam ravaged the South Pacific. Edgell Junior, a Ni-Vanuatu man from Pentecost Island and member of Slingsby’s Flying Squad ensemble, experienced and survived Cyclone Pam and its aftermath. Based on his lived experience, this moving production emphasises the real importance of community cooperation and resilience.

The River That Ran Uphill drops the audience in the eye of the storm. As the waters rise, this story carries forward a message of warning and, perhaps, a raft of hope.