UPDATE: An exciting new outdoor theatre experience is set to launch this December in Sydney, bringing laughter and human connection to the forefront. The interactive performances, led by artists Ali Gordon and Alicia Gonzalez, promise to engage audiences in a unique blend of ritual, game, and theatre without the need for traditional seating or reservations.
Starting on December 6 and 7, 2024, from 3 PM to 8 PM, the events will be held at Umina Beach near the surf club on Sydney Ave. Following this, the performances will move to The Entrance on December 13 and 14, maintaining the same time schedule. Each show lasts approximately 15-20 minutes, allowing attendees to experience the fun without a large time commitment.
This innovative outdoor theatre concept focuses on delivering emotions rather than traditional theatrical elements. Audience members are invited to step into a “restaurant” of memories, where their own words and experiences become part of the performance. There’s no food—just feelings served fresh, as participants share laughter and stories, guided by the dynamic duo.
The performances are inspired by the French term “restaurer,” which means “to restore,” emphasizing the goal of building interpersonal connections through visual poetry and theatrical clowning. The unique format has been featured in recent festivals, including the 2025 Enlighten Festival in Canberra and the 2024 Parralanes Festival, Sydney’s largest free street festival.
Alicia Gonzalez, a local from Umina Beach, has an impressive background, having trained at Lecoq in Paris. She specializes in clown artistry and the creation of original, physically told narratives for theatre and film. As the founder of The Clown Institute in Sydney, she aims to help adults reconnect with their playful side.
Her counterpart, Ali Gordon, is a talented performer and director who co-founded Drop Bear Theatre, renowned internationally for engaging performances for babies and their caregivers. Currently serving as an Artist in Residence with the Sydney Opera House House Swap program, Gordon’s solo physical comedy shows have toured extensively across Australia.
This project is supported by Creative Art Central, the Central Coast Council, and private donors via the Australian Cultural Fund, ensuring a rich experience for all attendees.
As excitement builds for these performances, audiences are encouraged to walk in and join the fun without booking. The immediacy of this experience highlights the importance of community and connection, making it a must-see event this December.
Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to engage with art in a fresh and interactive way—mark your calendars and prepare for an unforgettable experience at Umina Beach and The Entrance!
