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'Based on the books Is That You, Ruthie? – first published by the University of Queensland Press in 1999 – and Buthalangi: A Maranoa Woman written by Dr Ruth Hegarty.
'Is That You, Ruthie? is a poignant exploration of a mother and daughter’s enduring connection; a deeply moving play that delves into the complex aftermath of a government removal policy that separated a mother (Ruby) and daughter (Ruthie) from 1930 to 1957, leaving scars that could never fully heal.
'The adaptation of Dr Ruth Hegarty’s David Unaipon award-winning novel Is That You, Ruthie? for the stage by Leah Purcell shares a personal and profound chapter of Australia’s truth-telling history. We witness a relationship forever altered by the dormitory system’s cruel legacy. Though they tried to rebuild what was lost, the bond between mother and daughter would never be the same.
'Ruthie’s story – of separation from her mother – is not unique. What she endured, affected many young First Nations girls and boys across Australia.
'Is That You, Ruthie? is a raw and heartfelt portrayal of two souls navigating the depths of their shared history. It's a story of resilience, courage, and the enduring human spirit. We delve into the complexities of family ties, and discover whether the estranged love of a mother and daughter can bridge the gaps that time and tragedy have carved.
'An unforgettable and timely journey through the pages of Australia’s past.'
Source: Production blurb.
Production Details
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Presented by QPAC in association with Oombarra Productions at Cremorne Theatre, Brisbane, from 2 December 2023.
Director: Leah Purcell.
Publication Details of Only Known VersionEarliest 2 Known Versions of
Works about this Work
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Leah Purcell’s Is That You, Ruthie? Is a Powerful Look at ‘Dormitory Girls’ Separated from Country and Family
2023
single work
review
— Appears in: The Conversation , 19 December 2023;
— Review of Is That You, Ruthie? 2023 single work drama'Aunty Ruth Hegarty, or Ruthie, was four-and-a-half years old when she was forcibly removed from her mother, Ruby, under the auspices of Queensland’s Aboriginals Protection Act (1897).' (Introduction)
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Ruthie Delivers on Truth
2023
single work
review
— Appears in: Koori Mail , 13 December no. 816 2023; (p. 37)
— Review of Is That You, Ruthie? 2023 single work drama'Despite the challenges and difficulties of living for years under the 'Protection Act', the strength and power of our women and families endured.'
-
Ruthie Delivers on Truth
2023
single work
review
— Appears in: Koori Mail , 13 December no. 816 2023; (p. 37)
— Review of Is That You, Ruthie? 2023 single work drama'Despite the challenges and difficulties of living for years under the 'Protection Act', the strength and power of our women and families endured.'
-
Leah Purcell’s Is That You, Ruthie? Is a Powerful Look at ‘Dormitory Girls’ Separated from Country and Family
2023
single work
review
— Appears in: The Conversation , 19 December 2023;
— Review of Is That You, Ruthie? 2023 single work drama'Aunty Ruth Hegarty, or Ruthie, was four-and-a-half years old when she was forcibly removed from her mother, Ruby, under the auspices of Queensland’s Aboriginals Protection Act (1897).' (Introduction)
Awards
- 2023 shortlisted Matilda Awards — Best Director
- 2023 shortlisted Matilda Awards — Best Mainstage Production
- 2023 shortlisted Matilda Awards — Best New Australian Play
- Barambah, Kilkivan area, Kingaroy - Murgon - Kilkivan - Woolooga area, Central West Queensland, Queensland,