For a troubled but brilliant teenager in 1980s Geelong, the world is a small place. Thirteen-year-old Jiembra Djalu and his brother Sonny are the new kids in town, and while Jiembra may be a video game whizz and maths genius, he’s always getting into strife. A friendship with the owner of the local arcade and a chance at gaming glory could see him change his life forever, but could also mean leaving behind what means most – his brother and adoring mother. BMX bikes, Michael Jackson, Gary Ablett, Donkey Kong and Friday night Kentucky Fried Chicken all provide the backdrop for this joyous family show.

Astroman is playwright Albert Belz’s irresistible and touchingly humorous coming of age story. With a glorious charm reminiscent of Stand By Me and Jasper Jones, this love letter to the ’80s wraps audiences in the highs and lows of growing up, the exhilaration of learning, and what it means to be truly courageous.

MTC Associate Director Sarah Goodes directs this world premiere starring Elaine Crombie(Black Comedy), alongside Kamil Ellis (Macbeth), and Calen Tassone (Red Dog), with Tony Briggs (author of The Sapphires) as Associate Director.