Bold Park Aquatic to Host World-first Immersive Theatre Experience

Published on 17 January 2024

The Town of Cambridge is proud to partner with Black Swan State Theatre Company of WA to host a first-of-its-kind production that will transform Bold Park Aquatic Centre into a theatrical stage for the world premiere of The Pool by Steve Rodgers.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Bold Park's urban bushlands, The Pool invites theatregoers to sit poolside and get to know the characters that frequent the Aquatic Centre, by listening in on their conversations through a personal headset and watching their world play out around the outdoor swimming pool.

Deputy Mayor Ben Mayes expressed that this distinctive production embodies the spirit of Bold Park Aquatic and the surrounding bushland.

“This unprecedented theatre production presents a unique opportunity for our community to engage with the arts in an immersive and unconventional setting,” Deputy Mayor Mayes said.

“The Pool promises to be a groundbreaking event, blending the magic of theatre with the natural beauty of our beloved aquatic venue.”

The Town-owned and operated Bold Park Aquatic Centre has provided aquatic facilities surrounded by one of the largest urban bushlands in the region for more than four decades. The venue, with its strong sense of community and connection, perfectly complements the themes explored in The Pool.

The storyline delves into the intimate relationships between generations, focussing on a mother’s attempt to connect with her adult daughter, a man undergoing knee rehabilitation, and two teenagers navigating the complexities of honesty and privacy. As water is explored as a metaphor for healing, the play emphasises its cleansing, relaxing, sustaining, and community-building powers.

Presented in association with Perth Festival, The Pool boasts a stellar lineup, including Kate Champion (Director), Steve Rodgers (Writer), Tim Collins (Composer & Sound Designer), and Amalia Lambert (Composer & Props Designer), along with a talented local cast.

Mr Rodgers drew inspiration from interviews with individuals working in and around community swimming pools and in aged care. The play is a celebration of society, emphasising the inclusive nature of public swimming pools that brings people together.

“An aquatic centre is more than a place to swim; it's a community organically grown around the meeting place of water,” Mr Rodgers said.

Adding to the immersive experience, ticket holders will have the opportunity to join the cast for a 10-minute Aqua Fit class in the pool after the 90-minute show. This post-performance interaction offers audience members a chance to be part of theatre history. 

The Pool runs from 9 to 25 February at Bold Park Aquatic Centre, as part of Perth Festival. Tickets for The Pool are available online at https://blackswantheatre.com.au/season-2024/the-pool

The Town is offering a chance to win one of 10 double passes to The Pool. For details, visit the Town’s website at: www.cambridge.wa.gov.au/ThePool. Entries close 4pm Wednesday, 31 January.