We Are
Established in 2001 the company is led by Artistic Director Sally Richardson with each production developed around a collective of multi-disciplined artists including dancers, actors, writers, composers, puppeteers, circus practitioners and filmmakers. The result is challenging and relevant works that combine engaging ideas with a powerful theatricality. Our productions have garnered critical acclaim and have toured regionally, nationally and internationally.
We have a desire to continually develop the possibilities of what Steamworks is and could be. We see ourselves as an ever-evolving expanding entity, always questioning and exploring performance languages, forms, voices and narratives, and seeking opportunities to work with new people and processes.
In its ten years of operation Steamworks has endeavoured to break down the boundaries between different art forms, from imagining creative events, exploring classic texts, to developing original hybrid works. We are committed to shaping an Australian performing arts culture that reflects and engages with our changing society, while attracting newer and more diverse audiences to our work. Our aim is always to create intelligent, passionate, and visceral performance experiences.
Steamworks initiates, promotes and supports the development of Australian creative talent. We are West Australian based with projects currently underway across Australia.
Steamworks activities extend through the performing arts in the areas of creation, direction, consultancy, community arts engagement, project and production management.
Our Successes
Live@Woodside community arts events 2008 and 2009, Perth and Karratha
WA Wheatbelt Festival The Drover's Wives 2008
International China Tour 2007 The Drover's Wives
Perth International Arts Festival world premiere The Drover's Wives 2006
WA Business News 40 Under 40 Awards, Parliament House Perth, 2005
2003 & 2004 Western Australian State Arts Sponsorship Awards
Melbourne and Sydney Touring Productions: Savage Grace & Nocturne
Dance Australia Critics Choice Awards: Best New Work The Drover's Wives 2006
Most Interesting Group: Steamworks Arts Productions
People Say
"This show touches the heart..."
(Rita Clarke, The Australian)
"The Drover's Wives is a groundbreaking production. A multi-layered synergy of music, dance, adapted text and visuals.
Stunningly performed, it is a perfectly realised work of art. "
(Naomi Millet, The West Australian)
"The Drover's Wives conquered Shanghai Audiences..this work is pure joy of art."
(CNR, Shanghai)
"This show was new in style and a most important event to open the 5th Beijing International Dance Festival."
(Jing Bao News, Beijing)
"The event was amazing. The entire steamworks artistic efforts were dazzling to say the least, with masses of families enjoying the wonderful environment.."
(Audience member; Live@Woodside 2009)