MERRIGONGX presents a new musical from creative duo Tom Hogan and Elana Stone. Mount  Hopeless, 1 – 3 September, is a comedy rock opera based on the story of explorers Burke & Wills.  

While often heralded as tragic-heroes, Mount Hopeless aims to explore their story as a warning tale  of what not to do.  

“It’s a story that needs to be told. It’s a musical that’s not just about some financially well-endowed  white men walking into the desert with a bathtub dreaming of everlasting historical relevance;  Mount Hopeless is about colonisation, the effects of ignoring the wisdom of the traditional owners of  this country, and the repercussions of enforcing your will upon the environment.” said Hogan and  Stone.  

The production was originally part of MERRIGONGX in 2020 but was supported to continue  development throughout the COVID-19 shutdowns.  

“Underpinning the show are some really potent questions about Australia now, leadership, and  mistakes… but Elana & I are there to make sure it’s all rooted in comedy, and music, so the big topics  still feel full of joy. And I get to wear a fake beard, over my actual beard; it’s fun.” Said Tom Hogan.  

“It is wonderful to finally bring Mount Hopeless to our audiences.” Said Leland Kean, Artistic  Development Manager at Merrigong Theatre Company. “Having Tom or Elana on our stages at any  time is a treat but having them bring to life this hilarious, rocking and sharp look on the true farce  that is the legend of Bourke and Wills is an absolute joy.” 

Elana Stone is a singer, songwriter, and bandleader of the ARIA award-winning folk and alt country  act All Our Exes Live In Texas. She is an ongoing member of Missy Higgins’ band, and has  collaborated with Josh Pyke, Ngaiire, and Melbourne comedy group Tripod.  

Tom Hogan is a multidisciplinary artist and musician working on Gadigal land, Sydney. His work is  focused on myth and authenticity, explored through comedy, music and storytelling. 

MERRIGONGX is the independent artist side of Merrigong Theatre Company. From in-house creative  developments to full-blown public presentations of new work, and everything in between,  MERRIGONGX provides independent artists with financial, technical, marketing and artistic  resources. For independent artists, this kind of support from venues, companies and sponsors is  invaluable in bringing a new production to life. 

MERRIGONGX productions are built on a Pay What You Feel basis, that puts the power to support  the artists in the hands of the audience. 

When	1 – 3 Sep
Where	Bruce Gordon Theatre, Illawarra Performing  Arts Centre
Tickets	This is a ‘pay what you feel’ event
Bookings	Or (02) 4224 5999  https://merrigong.com.au/shows/mount hopeless/