Keith, still young but obviously beaten, is a Digger just back from the horror of jungle warfare in Borneo. He stands stock still and still in his khakis, as he stares vacantly out of his upper window, his slouch hat loosely at his side. From what we know of him, his palpable sadness might be somewhat soothed by serenity of this view. In the fading daylight, Keith seems to be searching in the northern vista for the Seven Hills of his childhood. We the viewer, stand in silence too among the ghosts of this house. Then, a faint noise. A dragging, almost human sound is ascending the polished mahogany staircase. Keith is a statue and unalarmed. And the echo fills the quiet.

CONVICT FOOTPRINTS @ THE FARM: THROUGH THE YEARS is immersive theatre at its best. Using a large amount of the national treasure of Bella Vista Farm, the niche small-audience production ranges about the whole site from the period mansion and gardens to the out buildings of cow bales and horse walks, slab built and shingled roofed, exploring and explaining the ownership of the farm from 1830-1940.

We meet the owners and workers in person, stand near them, ask them questions and watch as they interact with each other. From Elizabeth Macarthur (Kellie Martin) and her naughty and ‘smelliest’ son (Sam Parry-Okeden) who she threatens with the workhouse to Mue Wing (Eric Hong) one of the many Chinese labourers who contributed to the success of the farm. Sheep then oranges and other produce, then back to sheep again are given as the reason for the wealth of the area. The whiskey and brandy stills might have had some effect too.

Unfortunately we don’t get to sample those liquors but we are offered cucumber sandwiches and dark thick tea and a Mrs Pearce’s cook (Emily McGowan) in the kitchen gives us bread as she demonstrates the making of a loaf. Impeccably researched and lightly written by Stephen Hopley, the event is peopled with real history brought to life. The acting is close up and present and the direction by Jerry Retford skilfully treads the difficult theatrical task of pulling an audience in with the imparting of information.

We learned so much about this wonderful historic site through the funny, occasionally rude, always entertaining hour we spend with the characters. Occasionally the time shifts are a bit confusing but anyone can tell a linear story. This is experiential theatre where the stunning black ballgown of performance discretely takes the eye from the long flowing train of education. Including the wearer of said gown, Mrs Hogarth (Katherine Shearer) dancing mistress who imparts etiquette and deportment. Sharing laughter with her is a highlight in the time travel experience. As is sharing in the loss and despair of Keith (Cameron Hunt) and his brother Norman (Craig Annis).

It is a show best experienced than read about , so on advice from Mrs Hogarth I will say, “Kind sir, I have a headache and don’t wish to go further!“

CONVICT FOOTPRINTS @ THE FARM: THROUGH THE YEARS continues at Bella Vista Farm until 14th February. For more information http://convictfootprints.com.au