Testimonials from ‘Source/Sauce’

In the three years I've known Will Tait and Jodie Ahrens, I've gleaned constant inspiration from their theatrical vision; and dedication. Witnessing the early manifestations of Source-Sauce in 2005, I realised that Jodie and Will were about to embark on a profound new performance medium, a sensory exploration requiring skill, persistence, and a broad, multidisciplinary approach that would essentially reinvent theatrical convention.
I look forward with great enthusiasm to the ongoing development and refinement of the Source-Sauce project, believing that its vision (or lack theerof!) offers new and important insights for Australian audiences.

Stuart Braun - Producer, Umbrella Entertainment

As a classically-trained professional composer and musician with a background in theatre and the arts, I've learnt the hard way, repeatedly, that events can only be recommended from personal witness; not from promotions or glossy brochures. I also appreciate how 'innovative', 'transformational' and 'unique' are rarely warranted to describe anything. However, Source-Sauce is all these things.
One measure of an artwork is its ability to inspire in witnesses a changed perception of the world that lasts long after returning to everyday life. Now, when I hold someone’s hand, stumble to the bathroom at night, forget not to talk with my mouth full, or become aware of my body’s senses in some other way, I’m reminded of Source-Sauce and the glimpse it gave me into how deeply our relationships to everything are based on physical ability. Source-Sauce offers the gift of inspiring in audiences a surprising, richer way of perceiving everyday life. I compelled all my best friends, family and colleagues to experience Source-Sauce, and I recommend it without a doubt to everyone else: children and adults of all ages, cultures and abilities.

Alan Lee - GradCertSocSci, BMus (Hons), BA

In 2004 I had the pleasure of experiencing a workshop presentation of “Source/Sauce” at the Artery in Melbourne. It was an interesting arts experience, which I thoroughly enjoyed. The focus was on ensuring a sensory experience for the ‘audience’ who become ‘participants’ in this innovative exploration of performance possibilities.
I strongly believe there is huge scope for this work to be developed and for the lead artists to continue their collaborations to create a concept that will ensure all involved have an opportunity to experience a theatrical event that will challenge their own boundaries and increase awareness of, in particular, Deaf and Blind people.
Ruth Whittingham - (Previous) Artistic Program Manager, Arts Access

Just wanted to say how fantastic Source/Sauce was. It was such an amazing experience and we all raved about it on the way home on the tram and haven't stopped raving about it since. It’s so refreshing to experience such a different piece of theatre. My mum, who has never really met anyone who is deaf before, was so excited. She felt like it gave her so many insights and she was so interested talking to the deaf/blind woman after the show. I think it has opened her eyes up to a whole new world.
I also really enjoyed the assault on my senses! It was quite inspirational. And it was also great to be able to meet all the actors and interpreters after the show. It was one of the best pieces of theatre I've ever experienced. Congratulations! Katie

Having participated as an audience member in their fringe season 2006, and watched the work develop along its course, we are convinced that what they are coming up with is well amongst the richest and most exciting new theatre work in town, certainly in Melbourne town.
Eloise Bowden
Open Studio, 204 High St, Northcote 3070

Testimonials from ‘Captivating Smell’

The whole experience as a participant is fabulously unique.
Marcus Schutenko - Victorian Multicultural Commission

Feelings of trepidation when approached - that's the on-edge feeling that is usual for a passer by being approached by something out of the ordinary - nice place to offer an experience as I'm already unsure, insecure. Once I made my decision to enter the offer of an experience I was open to what it might give me. The idea of a swap is good - people love to talk about themselves. The idea of a choice is good too - people love a menu. I found the blindfold both unexpected and reassuring - that thing of if I can't see no one can see me. The story/poem associated with the title was strong - and the effect of the sensory experience was great - really took me somewhere. I made a conscious decision to fully immerse myself in the offer and so was able to respond quite emotionally. I'd be interested to hear what were the usual responses from people on the street. It was for me a personally touching experience and wonderful in that it was a fleeting and deep one. That's not a combination that is often available - unless it’s traumatic! Like a car crash or something.
Sue Giles
Artistic Director - Polyglot Puppet Theatre

Review of ‘Beyond Sheep’

The Village Newspaper, ‘The Fly’, Edinburgh Gardens, November 2008
You are most vulnerable and otherwise perceptive when your eyes flit madly for some point of focus… light. I was cast headlong into a nightmare that was nobodies but my own. My only sanctity being a honey and lemon lozenge. This kind of theatre is not to be missed.
Tobias Hengeveld - Art Critic