After taking Brisbane by storm, the immersive theatre production, Love Lust Lost, is coming to Melbourne. This multisensory experience by Broad Encounters will take over The Austral in Collingwood, a historic theatre from the 1920s. Hop aboard the E.V. Nautilus, and descend into an underwater theatrical playground. Explore 38 intricately designed spaces across over 1500 square metres. Go at your own pace, and become active participants in the story. Love Lust Lost will run from Friday September 8. Pre-sale tickets are available from Wednesday June 28, and general public tickets go on sale from Monday July 3.
Love Lust Lost
This adults-only adventure features a multi-layered plot, with thematic nods to Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea, Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Mermaid and Heart of Darkness. Follow nine characters, and the lengths they will go to in pursuit of love and lust. This immersive performance is like no other, featuring music, spoken word, dance, circus, soundscapes and even scent. With secret rooms, hidden bars, and puzzles to solve, no two experiences will be the same.
According to Kirsten Siddle, founder of Broad Encounters and co-writer of Love Lust Lost, The Austral itself will become a character in its own right. “Having started its life as a beloved picture house, dance hall and theatre in 1921, it feels very special to be able to give the treasured building a farewell that honours its roots before it takes on a new life with future developers,” she said.
The performance will run from 75-90 minutes. You’re encouraged to go at your own pace in this choose-your-adventure experience. Follow the mysterious Captain Andersen into a shimmering subterranean world, or chart your own course. A bespoke bar will offer drinks and salty bites, providing plenty of Dutch courage before your journey, or a place to decompress afterwards.
If you’re keen for this underwater adventure, sign up to the waitlist now for pre-sale access.