In its milestone 40th year, Australia’s leading physical theatre company, Legs On The Wall, has been honoured with a prestigious Impact Award at PAC Australia’s annual ceremony for their ground-breaking work, THAW. The award, presented on 21 August at the Geelong Arts Centre as part of the Australian Performing Arts Exchange (APAX), recognizes excellence in performing arts with a focus on lasting community impact.
THAW, created by Legs On The Wall’s Artistic Director Joshua Thomson, is a powerful durational work that has captivated audiences in Australia. Featuring a series of artists performing atop a suspended 2.7-tonne ice sculpture as it slowly melts, the performance serves as a profound metaphor for the urgent need for climate action. With over 16,000 in-person viewers and more than 10,000 tuning in via the live stream of its Sydney Festival premiere, THAW has resonated deeply with audiences, sparking critical conversations on the climate crisis.
“This award is a testament to the power of art to not only engage but to inspire real change,” said Joshua Thomson. “As we celebrate 40 years of pushing the boundaries of physical theatre, THAW represents our ongoing commitment to creating works that challenge, move, and resonate with audiences worldwide.”
In addition to its Australian acclaim, THAW is set to make its mark on the international stage this week, with upcoming performances at the Greenwich and Docklands International Festival in London and Zomer van Antwerpen in Belgium. Australian audiences who wish to experience the international performances of THAW can tune into a special livestream on their website: www.legsonthewall.com.au/thaw
As Legs On The Wall continues to celebrate its 40th anniversary, this award marks a significant moment in the company’s storied history, underscoring its role as a leader in innovative, socially-conscious physical theatre.
For more information on the award, THAW’s international tour, and how to access the livestream, visit www.legsonthewall.com.au/thaw
