6 Degrees of Ned Kelly: The Search For Kelly’s Talisman Skull – Adelaide Fringe Review

BASEM3NT, Wed Feb 17 He is an infamous character in Australian history and, as Melissa Rowston explains, it seems every Aussie has a connection to him. Rowston takes the audience through a thorough collection of found documents and memories to piece together who Ned Kelly really was - and what he means to Australia. The original larrikin, Ned Kelly and his story are central to the country’s national history, and the mythology that surrounds him plays an integral part in Australian identity. Part history lesson, part re-enactment and full-on investigation, Rowston traces the whereabouts of Ned Kelly’s skull, which has become a talisman of sorts to many in Australia. Rowston starts her show wearing a replica Ned Kelly mask which she removes and places next to her, illuminated by torch, bearing a striking resemblance to Darth Vader’s helmet: a symbol that reflects the power of myth and legend. She shares her adventures of her pursuit of Ned Kelly stories, describing the people she meets along the way and the weirder tributes she encounters (log art, anyone?). Rowston treats all of her subject matter with respect and fondness. While her reflection glosses over the grittier aspects of Ned Kelly’s legacy, her performance definitely left this American wanting to learn more about the man behind the legend. We may never know about the true location of Ned Kelly’s skull. But that doesn’t matter because, as she states in the show, “it’s still a great story”. Elizabeth Harnett 6 Degrees Of Ned Kelly continues at BASEM3NT until from 7pm Sun 21 Feb. Book at FringeTIX on 1300 621 255 or adelaidefringe.com.au. Click HERE to purchase your tickets.