In Conversation with Matthew Morris – Until Falling Things Work
In this edition of In Conversation, we shine a light on Until Falling Things Work, a new dance work by Matthew Morris, premiering at The Blue Room Theatre from 13 – 16 May. The architecture of our histories, the building blocks of our existence, is hidden between the cracks and visible to those who dare to see. This performance shares the stories of how one man’s life touches the world through poetic prose and dance. Moments in memory and time upend and suspend a life less ordinary. We caught up with Matthew Morris to dive into the creative process behind the work and what audiences can expect from this thrilling new production.
What motivated you to apply to be part of The Blue Room Theatre’s 2026 season, and what drew you to this project?
After presenting the initial concept of this work at a STRUT Dance and MakeShift evening residency and receiving positive feedback, one of the questions I was asked was, ‘What’s next?’ Alice Cummins who was a mentor during this residency said, ‘you keep writing!’ That’s exactly what I did, and from this motivation and momentum, I was encouraged to apply for The Blue Room Theatre Annual Season. This project was born out of a train trip north from Sydney to Red Head, where I saw a couple of EOI’s for STRUT Dance and started writing immediately. It had been about 14 years since I’d created something independently, and 13 months prior, I’d had a traumatic accident breaking my femur, putting me out of action for a considerable time. The writing enabled me to dance again and was incredibly healing.
How has the creative journey been so far, from concept development to rehearsals?
It’s been slow and steady with a lot of breath in between to allow space and time for action and reflection. I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have had the good company of Alice Cummins along for the ride as creative consultant and dramaturg. Aside from a most wonderful, heartfelt friendship that has evolved, her visceral integrity, playful yet rigorous artistry, and wisdom have facilitated deep learning within me.
What has stood out to you during the rehearsal process, any unexpected discoveries or moments of growth?
The rehearsal process is challenging, confronting and enlivening, full of rich content for growth as a maker. What I found most difficult, or the biggest learning curve, was producing, with all the ins and outs, and hours of sitting in front of a computer and communicating with the staff that facilitates the show being presented. The Blue Room Theatre have great resources, and in the past month, I’m so happy to have Izzy Leclezio on board as co-producer. They’re a legend and so thankful for their time.
How has the collaboration with your cast, crew, and creatives shaped the work and your vision for it?
The collaboration with every member of the team, as each has joined the production over the past year, offers a new perspective and reactivates the investigation. Layers of colour, thought, or sound have continued to imbue the work, making it richer and more complex, kind of harmonising its integrity. Both Josten Myburgh and Andrew Stumpfel have been integral to the realisation of this work, bringing their intimate and sensitive knowledge of their craft to immerse us in the sonic and visual landscape it offers.
What does having your show programmed in The Blue Room Season mean to you as a lead creative?
Firstly, it’s a huge privilege to sit alongside and amongst so many extraordinary independent local artists. We all share the courage and vulnerability in revealing our artistic endeavours. As the lead creative, it’s an incredible platform for visibility and a place to share my artistic voice with the community.
As you move closer to opening, what are you most excited, or even nervous, about sharing with audiences?
I’m definitely excited to finally be sharing this work as there has been so much support and curiosity from friends, family and the community. It’s a given I’ll be a little nervous before the show begins.
What is your show bringing to the Perth arts scene, and what do you think would help strengthen the local arts ecosystem?
I hope the show offers a fresh point of view on storytelling and a good night out at the theatre. Looking forward to having a chat in the bar after the show. I believe there is a thriving local arts ecosystem here, perhaps diversifying funding opportunities and free coffee and cookies.
Image by Fi Mulholland