An image of a woman's face with sparkles overlaid
1 - 5 February

Ugly Lies the Bone

War trauma defines returning soldier Jess's life. To escape her pain, she begins experimental virtual reality therapy where she builds a breathtaking world and slowly repairs wounds past and present as she heal her relationships, her life and herself.

Small moments carry huge emotional punch in this compelling, honest, and moving story of courage and resilience. Recently discharged soldier, Jess (Harriet Prebble), returns home physically and emotionally scarred after her third tour of Afghanistan.

Moving home to Florida to live with her sister Kacie (Victoria Stevens), Jess finds that life has moved on perhaps more than she has. NASA has cut the space programme, jobs are hard to find and ex-boyfriend Stevie (Jacob Osborne) has married.

Raw and inescapably moving. A play of small moments that hide big emotions.
Rex Reed, The Observer

Her sister Kacie tries to remain positive but struggles with Jess's instant dislike of her new boyfriend Kelvin (Nathan Weatherhead), and reluctance to meet their ailing Mother (Simone Kennedy). The heart of Ugly Lies the Bone explores issues of empowerment and the human cost to individuals and their relationships when experiencing severe trauma, with some light touches of humour.

Written by award-winning American playwright Lindsey Ferrentino, Ugly Lies the Bone will premiere at BATS Theatre, 1 Kent Terrace, Wellington - 1st to 5th of February 2022.

Made in association with Six Degrees Festival.

Please note this show deals with adult themes and language.

Get your Six Degrees Festival Season Pass!

See any three shows for $45, what a score!

Colabré Theatre Collective's Creative Team
Lynn Bushell - Director
Lizz Santos - Scenic Designer
Morgan Finlayson Smith- Music Composer
Jeevan Gossage - Sound Engineer
Connor Hislop - AV Designer
Matilde Vadseth Furholm - Lighting Designer
Florence Cater - Choreographer
Rita Ann Penhale Cashmore - Costume Manager
Michaella Simpson- Production Manager
Jessica Buckham - Stage Manager
Dennis Eir Lim - Marketing Manager