Back to Back Theatre: THE DEMOCRATIC SET

A portrait of this community in motion, told by it’s people.

THE DEMOCRATIC SET is a residency model for creating short films and performances, to explore the belief that all people are, in principle, equal and should enjoy social, political and economic rights and opportunities. THE DEMOCRATIC SET uses a custom-made film set, a neutral room with two opposing doors.

Disturbingly obvious and tantalisingly strange, THE DEMOCRATIC SET is a rapid series of short live performances and screen-based video portraits created in collaboration with communities.

THE DEMOCRATIC SET is a cavalcade of portrait, soapbox and drama.

Made in collaboration with Cambridge Junction in October 2022, this film is a portrait of this community in motion, told by it’s people.

“We’re delighted to have worked with 100 people (and 2 dogs!) from our community to make this fantastic experiment in democracy with critically acclaimed Australian company Back to Back Theatre. The only thing we knew would be in this film was a simple wooden box and it is the passion and creativity of local people that brought this simple set to life. We are inspired and driven by everything this film says about the inclusivity and diversity of our city and those people with whom we engage throughout the year and look forward to continuing to grow our community programme over the coming years.” Matt Burman, Artistic Director, Cambridge Junction


Original Concept, Design & Direction Bruce Gladwin
Design & Original Set Construction Mark Cuthbertson
Original Videography Rhian Hinkley
Director Ingrid Voorendt
Producer Nikki Watson
Videographer Philip Einwick
Sound Composition Yvonne Hercules
Back to Back Representative Ben Oakes
Production Manager David Miller

Developed with support from the Australian Government through the Australia Council, its arts funding and advisory body, and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade through the UK/Australia Season, and the Victorian Government through Creative Victoria. Back to Back Theatre is supported by Australia Council for the Arts, Creative Victoria, and the City of Greater Geelong.