AustLit

The Lamentable Longing of Lazarus Leaf

is about Lazarus Leaf, the lowest leaf in Terri the tree. Lazarus wishes he were higher up in the tree so that he could enjoy the special flight down to the ground that all autumn leaves dream of.

The play explores the issues of persistence, resilience and longing in a humorous context. It raises questions of individuality, self-esteem, standing up for oneself and trusting one's intuition. Students gain an understanding of the purpose of change and growth in their lives.

The Bothersome Bunyips

concerns Pintaboo the potoroo who lives below Bullabullu and Grunyip two noisy fighting bunyips that prevent Pintaboo from sleeping.

The play explores the issues of bullying and resilience in a humorous context. Students observe the importance of individual differences and value the acceptance of self and others. They gain an understanding of the importance of being responsible for one's own actions.

The Road That Went Home

is about the journey of Rocky and his friends from the inner city freeway entrance; through an industrial landscape where Fac lives; on to houses where we meet Biddle; to open fields where we meet Coo and Shep; and finally to Rocky's beginning in a mountain meadow.

The play explores the integrity of our natural environment, the need to follow our intuition, such as Rocky the Road's dream to return to his starting point, and the importance of freedom, rest and relaxation in our busy lives. Students gain an understanding of the purpose of change, growth and following treasured dreams in their own lives, and of the importance of being responsible for one's actions.

There’s a Ghost in My Room

is about the fact that Marshall has discovered that there really is a ghost in his room, but Mum just doesn’t seem to notice. Marshall does everything he can to make her aware, but Mum is more concerned with folding the washing. Marshall changes from being terrified of the ghost to becoming friends with it, asking Mum not to scare it.

The play explores Marshall’s journey from initial fear to acceptance and enjoyment. Students gain an understanding of the purpose of dealing with fear, and developing friendship in their own lives.