'Dark Stars' is an exciting new solo play, written and directed by one of New Zealand_x0019_ s most celebrated young playwrights, Arthur Meek. It stars American actor and Australian/New Zealand resident Jonathan Council, who portrays a version of his own life, as an unlucky African-American actor who - in seeking his big break - is propelled by misfortune to a tiny island in the Pacific where he unearths the forgotten story of Australasia_x0019_ s most popular Black Minstrel, Irving Sayles. Sayles fled the United States of America after the Civil War and quickly rose to prominence throughout Australia as a Black comedian of exceptional wit and skill. He performed racist, self-deprecating material, and white audiences lapped it up for good reason. It was side-splittingly funny. Sayles also distinguished himself as an athlete, winning sprint races and smashing sixes in contests all over Australia. He was a larger than life character, and the first celebrity of colour to grace the cover of an Australian magazine. He died onstage at the age of 42, of an oversized heart. He now lies buried in an unmarked grave. Jonathan Council_x0019_ s film and television career includes working on top-rating US TV shows and performing alongside Harrison Ford. But it was never quite enough. After coming to Australia he found a niche, before having it cruelly torn away. Dark Stars is the story of trading on your looks, and lusting for fame. It examines racist humour and two characters who lived their lives one hundred years apart, and who are both faced with the same dilemma: Is fame worth the price of dignity? The set for Dark Stars was designed by up and coming feature film director Sally Tran. Think Michel Gondry meets the cover of Sergent Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band. All the characters from the show are depicted in three-quater life size 2D cutouts, which are brought to life by Jonathan's performance. Dark Stars is a treat for the eyes and ears and a workout for the conscience.
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