'Our Country's Good'

Set against the backdrop of Australia's penal colony in the late 18th century, this thought-provoking drama is a poignant examination of the redemptive power of theatre. As the struggling colony grapples with issues of justice and rehabilitation, a group of convicts and British officers embark on an audacious project: to stage a play that will not only entertain but also enlighten and lift their spirits. Amid the harsh realities of their existence, the production becomes a beacon of hope, revealing the shared humanity that transcends societal divisions.

Through the exploration of the relationships between captives and captors, Our Country's Good masterfully navigates themes of oppression, self-discovery, and the unifying force of art, underscoring the enduring truth that even in the harshest of circumstances, the spark of creativity can illuminate the path to redemption.

Directed by Jeff Coussens, Augustana professor of theatre arts.