The Hyena is a gripping tale of survival, displacement, and the erosion of innocence.
A young shepherd, Samuel, must reconfigure everything he has known — torn between the safety of his past in the highlands of Tigray and the harsh realities of life in the western suburbs of Sydney and Melbourne.
As he faces new threats in unfamiliar places, Samuel navigates being both protector and scavenger in a reality where his choices can be lethal or liberating. Inspired by real events, The Hyena: Act I delivers a powerful, solo performance that speaks to the universal human experience of longing, identity, and transformation.
Join us for the first part of this deeply moving coming-of-age story where home, heart, and humanity collide on stage, and leave you wanting more.
Ras-Samuel is an actor, writer, and producer, who was given a traditional ceremony in his homeland, providing him with the responsibility to be a vessel for telling stories.
Western Edge creates spaces for young artists from Melbourne’s west to tell their own stories, with their own voice, in their own way.
Session times at the Bowery Theatre, St Albans:
Friday 14 March, 6.30-7.30pm
Saturday 15 March, 3-4pm
Saturday 15 March, 6.30-7.30pm
Warnings: adult themes, coarse language, loud noises, themes of abuse, racism, violence, flashing lights, smoke/haze, incense. Not recommended for children under 16 years old.
Prayer rooms provided for all shows
Auslan interpreted performance Saturday 15 March, 3-4pm
Friday and Saturday evening shows will be followed by a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony and refreshments from 7.30-9pm.
NOTAFLOF: No one will be turned away for lack of funds. If cost is a barrier for you, please reach out to Western Edge at programs@westernedge.org.au with your desired show date and time.
Presented in partnership with the Bowery Theatre
Campaign events
The Hyena: Act 1 | 14 March
The Hyena: Act 1 | 15 March (Matinee - Auslan interpreted)
The Hyena: Act 1 | 15 March