From a hotel room in New York City a storm approaches. In the dim light the shadowy figure of a man is seated. The radio plays songs of the 20’s until there is a massive crash of thunder and the power goes out. As he begins to speak amid what remains of his illustrious life, we are transported into the mind of this incredible genius as Tesla recalls the memories and achievements, the highlights and heartbreaks in a world not ready for his gifts, his vision and ultimate invention: the transmission of wireless power; “free for the benefit of all mankind”.
TESLA was first performed in April 2015 to 3 sell out nights at the Cairns Centre of Contemporary Arts and in June at The Clink Theatre for Port Douglas Carnivale.
A 90 minute One Man Show (not including intermission) set between 1880 and 1940.
Original play written by Michael J. Newlight & Frank Tabbita.
Produced and performed by Toby John Short.
Most of the props used in the first 2 seasons were property of the Rondo Theatre, so Dr. Tesla has a small modest shopping list to complete the set and tour the show.
Suit including Top Hat and Tails, $500
Walking cane. $50
Antique style Globe of the World. $30
Crystal water jug and tumbler. $50
Victorian (reproduction) Armchair. $200
Custom made turned leg table. $ – Negotiable
2 Renaissance Revival (reproduction) Dining chairs. $ 300
3 strobe lights, $70 – $150 each
2 laser lights. $150 each
Black backdrop curtain. $250
All prices are approximate quotes.
Once permanent props and costume are sourced, TESLA will be pitched to the Brisbane Powerhouse, the 2018 Darwin and Adelaide Fringe Festivals and continue touring into 2019.
Funds will be used for the following:
All prices are approximate quotes
3 strobe lights, $70 – $150 each
2 laser lights (blue). $150 each
Suit including Top Hat and Tails, $500
Walking cane. $50
Antique style Globe of the World. $30
Crystal water jug and tumbler. $50
Victorian (reproduction) Armchair. $200
Custom made turned leg table. $ – Negotiable
2 Renaissance Revival (reproduction) Dining chairs. $ 300
Black backdrop Curtain, $250
Selection into festivals is subject to committee and theatres to availability.
The production is also suited to a Spiegel tent although staging and rigging plus insurance is often expensive. This option will be considered should a tent be available at selected festivals, and small modifications made to the script to suit the setting.