A Song For You: An Unlikely Drug Story
SELLING FAST
CABARET, MAGIC & BURLESQUE
In his deeply moving follow-up to 2019’s “Purple Plastic Maori,” Shalom Kaa unfolds his harrowing yet uplifting journey from celebrated artist to battling addiction and despair, then onto a path of redemption. Shalom’s narrative takes a dark turn by 2022, as he faces separation, financial collapse, and a life-threatening addiction. Hospitalised with a severe infection from a dirty needle, he finds ironic solace in Whitney Houston’s “”I Look To You,”” drawing parallels between their struggles and finding profound meaning in the lyrics that reflect his own life’s tumult.
This story is a candid exploration of his fall into darkness, marked by raw honesty and vulnerability. Through Whitney Houston’s music and reenactments of his own psychology sessions, Shalom confronts his deepest lows, crafting a narrative of loss (“”Like I Never Left””), addiction, and strenuous recovery (“”I Didn’t Know My Own Strength””), as we slowly learn that the path to sobriety lays deeply in the mind of an innocent child (“”A Song For You””) and saying goodbye to the parts of our lives that don’t matter (“”Salute””).
Expertly told with love through song, dance, theatre, comedy and thoughtful production, there is no wallowing, just a provocation to continue to walk with kindness.
About the artist
Shalom Kaa, a multifaceted artist with Maori roots, has left an indelible mark on the Australian performing arts scene. Beginning with a strong foundation in music within his family, Shalom’s journey took him from vibrant performances in New Zealand to significant roles across Sydney and Melbourne. His move to Darwin in 2015 marked a transition to musical theatre, showcasing his versatility in leading roles in productions such as “”Jesus Christ Superstar”” and “”Evita,”” while also embracing artistic direction in sell-out shows like “”Beatles Cabaret”” and “”ABBA Cabaret.””
His theatrical range broadened into dramatic roles in “”The Crucible”” and comedic turns on the Darwin comedy circuit, proving his prowess across genres. Shalom’s directorial achievements include the groundbreaking “”Romeo & Juliet: Star Crossed Lovers,”” a testament to his innovative vision.
Beyond the stage, Shalom’s film and television roles, alongside his commitment to community through the True Colours Chorus Darwin, underscore his dedication to diversity and representation. His autobiographical cabaret, “”Purple Plastic Maori,”” won acclaim and awards, highlighting his journey and impact as an artist. As host of The Seen NT and an ambassador for Variety-The Children’s Charity NT, Shalom Kaa continues to be a luminous force in the arts, celebrating his heritage and inspiring audiences with his talent and passion.
DATE & TIME
Friday 19 | 7:45 PM – 8:45 PM
Saturday 20 | 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
PRICE
General Admission $30
Concession $20
Group $20
LOCATION
Brown’s Mart Theatre
PRACTICAL & CONTENT WARNINGS
- This event is for ages 16+
- Adult Themes
- Strong Language
- Suicide or self harm
- Mental illness
- Sexual violence
- Racism
- Homophobia
- Death or dying
- Violence or domestic violence
- Child abuse/paedophilia
- Drugs including alcohol
- Needles/drug use
DURATION
60 minutes
ACCESSIBILITY
- Licensed Venue
- Wheelchair Accessible
- Offer gender neutral toilets
- Have a fully accessible public toilet that is unlocked
- Access to the smoking and bar areas are wheelchair friendly
- Accessible by public transport
- Car park suitable for wheelchair transportation available within 2 minutes of the venue entrance
- Signage is clear, large and easy to read
- Assistance dogs welcome with an appropriate toileting space nearby
- Seating options are available in all spaces
- Railing is used where appropriate (stairs and toilets etc)
- Companion cards accepted: please bring a copy