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 upon the gritty world of 90s rap.
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 and put Yurii at risk of arrest. To avoid being "re-educated (killed by the KGB)," he seized the 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.
Breaking into the Australian music scene proved challenging, as his quirky R&B and dance music style was initially met with scepticism. However, his big break came when a local record label recognized his talent. "Absolutely Perfect" launched Yurii into international fame, allowing him to tour the world. Unfortunately, a mishap in America led to the end of his career.
Many years later, Yurii was invited to perform at a benefit concert for Ukraine in support of the war effort. Finally, his music was appreciated by a global audience once again.
**Episodic Screen Pitch**
Episode 1: Echoes Behind the Iron Curtain
The series opens with Yuri DJing at a lively 1990s-themed nightclub filled with vibrant fashion and energetic music. As Yuri narrates his early life in Odesa, Ukraine, during Soviet times, he shares how, 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. Amid political changes from 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 some members desire to pursue solo careers or different creative directions, creating divisions within the band. Caught in the middle, Yuri faces challenges in keeping the group together. Key moments include:
- The band’s challenging performances in the US and Europe.
- Secret meetings and projects by band members working independently.
- Yuri feels betrayed and questions the band’s future.
Episode 5: Flames of Fame and Fallout
The band splinters as members pursue solo careers. One member, eager to establish a bold identity, stages an extravagant music video involving a white horse and elaborate pyrotechnics. Unfortunately, a stunt goes horribly wrong, resulting in injuries and public ridicule. The fallout strains relationships within the band even further. An attempted reunion performance ends disastrously, leading the group to part ways amid personal and professional turmoil. Key moments include:
- The ill-fated music video shoot.
- Media backlash and misunderstandings surrounding the solo project.
- The failed reunion and the emotional fallout between band members.
Episode 6: Reunited Under New Lights
Thirty years later, Yuri and his former bandmates are invited to perform at a benefit concert for Ukraine. Initially hesitant, they agree for the sake of the cause. As they reconnect 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"
This dramedy 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.