The Other side
book and lyrics Paul Western Pittard music and lyrics Yuri Worontschak
The Other side
book and lyrics Paul Western Pittard music and lyrics Yuri Worontschak
The Other Side
Another musical by the Lizardry pair, Yuri and Paul. Osten is a internet super fan but afraid to leave his own apartment. He lives a vicarious life through Marika, a Euro- pop star. But when Marika apparently dies he finds himself in an emotional vacuum. The musical is a story of freedom, obsession and love in a post truth age. What's it really like on the other side?
The Other Side
Another musical by the Lizardry pair, Yuri and Paul. Osten is a internet super fan but afraid to leave his own apartment. He lives a vicarious life through Marika, a Euro- pop star. But when Marika apparently dies he finds himself in an emotional vacuum. The musical is a story of freedom, obsession and love in a post truth age. What's it really like on the other side?
Shift Control
Shift Control
Main Man Yurii is a music-driven quasi-biographical mockumentary based on my life in a bad-arse 90s rap band.
In 1990, as the Soviet Union was on the brink of collapse, Yurii produced a comedic record titled "Soviet Bloc" in Odesa, Ukraine. The song, inspired by Gorbachev’s policies of Glasnost and Perestroika, critiqued the regime, putting Yurii at risk of arrest. To avoid being "re-educated," he seized an opportunity to escape by producing a record for Soviet pop star Jenya in Australia. Although he initially believed he was destined for Austria, Yurii found himself in Melbourne, where the local Ukrainian community warmly embraced him.
In Melbourne, Yurii met Kaylene, known as "Spatial Kaye," and together they formed a musical duo called "Spatial Kaye and Main Man Yurii." Despite their different backgrounds, they bonded over their love of rap. Utilizing Yurii’s unique programming skills, honed on outdated Soviet technology, and Kaye’s passion for sound, they created their first track, "Bight of Love," and performed it in inner-city clubs.
Breaking into the Australian music scene proved challenging, as their R&B and dance music style was initially met with scepticism. However, their big break came when Central Station Records recognized their talent and signed them. Their track "Absolutely Perfect" became a major hit, launching them into international fame and allowing them to tour the world.
Despite their success, the pressures of fame took a toll on their partnership. Kaye began planning a solo career, but after a tragic accident, her ambitions faltered. Meanwhile, Yurii returned to focus on music production in his new home.
Thirty years later, Yurii and Kaye reunited at a benefit concert for Ukraine. They performed "Into the Light" and "Every Day is Christmas," reconciling and symbolizing the enduring power of music to heal, unite, and transcend even the darkest times. Their legacy is one of resilience, redemption, and the transformative power of music.
Episode 1: Echoes Behind the Iron Curtain
The series opens with Yuri and Kaye DJing at a lively 1990s-themed nightclub filled with vibrant fashion and energetic music. Yuri begins narrating his early life in Odesa, Ukraine, during Soviet times. Despite the suppression of Ukrainian culture and language, he finds solace in clandestine music sessions at Melodiya Recording Studios, where he works as a studio hand. There, he meets Viktor and Svetta, who introduce him to forbidden Western pop music. Together, they create a rebellious song that satirizes life under the Soviet regime.
Key moments include:
- Yuri's secret recording sessions while the studio manager, Volodymyr, is asleep.
- The creation of the song "Soviet Bloc" with Viktor and Svetta.
- Volodymyr discovered their music and connected Yuri with Jenya, a flamboyant Soviet pop star.
Episode 2: From Odesa to Down Under
Yuri begins producing music for Jenya, leading to unexpected opportunities. Amidst the political changes of Glasnost and Perestroika, he is tasked with presenting Jenya to the Australian government. Mistaking Australia for Austria, Yuri embarks on a journey that changes his life. In Melbourne, he is amazed by the advanced recording studios and meets notable figures, including the charismatic Prime Minister Bob Hawke. As news from home worsens, Yuri seeks asylum in Australia.
Key moments include:
- Yuri's humorous cultural misunderstandings upon arriving in Australia.
- Collaborations with local artists like Peter Andre as he attempts to shape their musical identities.
- Receiving asylum and starting a new life in Melbourne.
Episode 3: The Rise of 'Way Back Five'
Embracing his new home, Yuri forms the band 'Way Back Five' with Australian musicians, including Michael Hutchence and Kate Ceberano. They create quirky, catchy songs that capture Australian life, such as "Cooking in the Kitchen" and a humorous take on football culture. The band experiences rapid success locally but faces challenges as they attempt to expand their reach.
Key moments include:
- Recording sessions filled with creative experiments and clashes.
- Signing a deal with the eccentric producer Michael Gudinski.
- Performing at major venues like the MCG and the comedic mishaps that ensue.
*Episode 4: Tensions and Transformations
As 'Way Back Five' attempts to break into the international market, they struggle with cultural barriers. American audiences find their style to be inauthentic, leading to disappointing tours. Internal tensions rise as Kaye, now rebranding herself as 'Special K,' desires to pursue a solo career inspired by artists like George Michael. Unbeknownst to Yuri, she begins working with a dubious manager to record her own album.
Key moments include:
- The band's challenging performances in the US and Europe.
- Kaye's secret meetings and recording sessions for her solo project.
- Yuri feels betrayed upon discovering Kaye's plans.
Episode 5: Flames of Fame and Fallout
Kaye releases her solo work, striving to establish herself as an adult contemporary artist. While shooting an extravagant music video involving a white horse and elaborate pyrotechnics, a stunt goes horribly wrong, and she suffers injuries. The incident leads to public ridicule and misunderstandings, straining her relationship with Yuri even further. Their attempted reunion performance ends disastrously, and the two-part ways amid personal and professional turmoil.
Key moments include:
- The ill-fated music video shoot resulting in Kaye's accident.
- Media backlash and misinterpretations of Kaye's appearance post-accident.
- The failed reunion and the emotional fallout between Yuri and Kaye.
Episode 6: Reunited Under New Lights
Thirty years later, Yuri and Kaye are invited to perform at a benefit concert for Ukraine. Initially hesitant, they agree for the sake of the cause. Reconnecting during rehearsals, they reflect on their past and rediscover their shared passion for music and commitment to cultural identity. Their heartfelt performance of "Into the Light" signifies their emotional journey.
Through satire and dialogue, the series comments on political changes, industry absurdities, and societal expectations.
Conclusion: "Main Man Yurii" is a dramedy that combines humour, heart, and history. It tells a story about the enduring power of music, the importance of cultural heritage, and the complexities of human relationships. The series invites viewers to dance through the nostalgia of the 1990s while exploring timeless themes of identity, ambition, and reconciliation.