Turning Towers explores plans to redevelop the Waterloo estate, and the impact on a diverse community of up to 4,000 people. We see the condescending actions of a government minister and staffer, an overwhelmed community worker, bewildered and anxious residents fighting to maintain friendships and a sense of control and purpose amid dramatic change.
There is humour too, most notably in the figure of Miss Information and her Dance of the Seven Towers – various veils symbolising bureaucratic jargon and ideological spin. Tenants ask questions, resisting the charms of an ill-defined “Long-term Project” involving “Relocation”, “Social Housing” and “Social Mix”.
The performances are committed and compelling.
An interactive component of the show is skilfully led by Milk Crate directors/jokers Goldele Rayment and Jonnie Swift. “Spectactors” consider means of empowering an oppressed group – advocacy, intervention, organisation – then take the stage as scenes are replayed.
What emerges is a keen appreciation for what residents are enduring, as well as their considerable strengths and determination. In the wake of a Q&A session that follows the performance at Redfern Town Hall (hosted by Dr Michael Darcy from the University of Western Sydney), consensus regarding an ideal scenario takes shape: the redevelopment ought to be staged to allow all public housing tenants the option of staying in Waterloo with no temporary out-of-area relocations.
