Shadowland Theatre brings The Campfire Project to parks across the city this summer. Fire is familiar to all cultures and peoples but often missing in urban environments. A campfire by design takes the form of a circle – everyone is equal, everyone can contribute, everyone can see each other. Fire acts as a distinct teaching tool: it is a living thing – like us – that needs to be fed, sustained, and looked after or it will die, but – like us – must not rage out of control. Shadowland’s Campfire Project is open to everyone of all ages, and offers the experience of fire through storytelling, music, Indigenous teachings, community gathering – and even marshmallow roasting.

An afternoon of free community workshops includes: Indigenous teachings, nature walks, fire knowledge, story-telling, song learning and arts activities. We invite community members to share their stories and songs, in whichever language they are familiar with. The evening begins with a parade of stilt-walkers and beautiful, flowing images leading to the campfire site. Here, Indigenous teachers and story-tellers show how to lay and start a fire and the meanings of each. As dusk falls, a shadow show is performed, ancient and new stories are told, and everyone is invited to singalong with Shadowland musicians (yes, we take requests). Roasted marshmallows (Halal included!) complete the campfire experience as, with sticky fingers and warm hands, communities come together to share a common hearth, and leave with a glow in their hearts.