MORTEL is the debut production of Sydney’s newest movement based theatre company MERAK, founded by Saša Ljubović. The show first debuted in July 2022 as part of the Academy of Film, Theatre and Television's alumni program initiative. The concept of this show was created from the very reason the company was founded, "All body types can create physical performance that is effective, powerful, and engaging. There is a place for all body types in the world of physical storytelling and movement doesn’t have to live in the world of the elite and untouchable". What better way to launch a company that celebrates the individuality of a performer than to create a show about life and what it means to be humxn.

 

MORTEL delves into the essence of being mortal and explores the phenomenon of life in nine stages as told through the body of thirteen performers. The nine stages of life are loosely based off Erik Erikson’s Nine Stages of Psychosocial Development, and this became a guide for devising the work. By exploring the sweep of life’s nine stages, the performers are able to delve into the beautiful and grotesque attributes of life while challenging societal expectations and taking ownership of the marvel that their bodies are, at this moment, right now. A devised work, drawn from the lived experiences of each company member.