A powerful show inspired by true events inside Victoria’s justice system.
Created by Essence Theatre Productions in collaboration with Ngā Mātai Pūrua Inc., The Yellow Line is a gripping, large‑scale theatrical work exploring identity, justice and redemption through a Māori and Pasifika lens.
Step inside the story
- A powerful, ensemble‑led performance -
- Contemporary storytelling grounded in real events -
- Recommended for people age 11+. Some coarse language and minimal violent themes -
- Māori and Pasifika cultural expression, including haka and music -
- Strong themes and emotional intensity -
Go deeper
For those interested in the history and research behind the production, explore the digital program.
Acknowledgements
The Yellow Line has been developed and produced with the support of the Malcolm Robertson Foundation, Wyndham City Council and the Scanlon Foundation.
Essence Theatre Productions acknowledges the collaboration and cultural leadership of Ngā Mātai Pūrua Inc. in bringing this story to the stage.
Inspired by real events at Port Phillip Prison — set to close amid major prison reforms — The Yellow Line follows Jordan, a young Pasifika prison officer tasked with teaching haka to inmates.
As Jordan walks the literal and metaphorical “yellow line” between guard and prisoner, the performance asks urgent questions about culture, belonging and the possibility of change within systems not designed to hold humanity at their centre.
At a glance
Created by
Essence Theatre Productions & Ngā Mātai Pūrua Inc.
Writers
Alaine Beek & Berne‑Lee Edwards
Format
Ensemble, contemporary theatre
Themes
Identity · justice · incarceration · culture · redemption
Presentation
Seasonal performances and touring presentations
Why this work matters
Through moments of humour, vulnerability and deep emotional honesty, The Yellow Line shines a light on the human stories often hidden behind headlines, particularly for Māori and Pasifika communities disproportionately impacted by incarceration.
By placing culture, music and haka at the heart of the work, the production explores how connection and identity can persist even in the most restrictive environments.
What to expect
Touring Information Kit
