A Macedonian folktale comes to life when a wounded white stork is rescued from a landfill by an unlikely saviour, transforming both of their lives for the better. Oscar-nominated director Tamara Kotevska’s whimsical and breathtaking film has the power to open our eyes and hearts to lives we’d otherwise miss.
The livelihood of farmers Nicola and Jana is threatened as economic forces make family farms unsustainable. When the rest of Nicola’s family goes abroad in search of a better future, he is left alone and turns to caring for a wounded stork he rescues. Their quiet companionship emerges through simple rituals – feeding, tending and watching flocks in flight. These moments unfold with unspoken grace, embodying care amid loss. Intertwined with this story is a folk tale of a boy turned into a stork after quarrelling with his father, mirroring Nicola’s own distance from his son. Through observational lyricism and Jean Dakar’s stirring cinematography, Tamara Kotevska creates a visual fable where stillness speaks volumes.
The Tale of Silyan is a new visionary documentary that affirms Kotevska’s unique talent for uncovering mythic depth within everyday gestures and revealing how a single act of kindness can carry profound quiet majesty.
Getting Here and Getting In:
Parking at UWA is free after 5pm. We recommend car parks 1 and 5: check this map.
Allow time for parking: UWA hosts many events and sometimes it takes a little longer to find a space.
Doors open at 6pm. In 2026 the box office will be cashless.
Food and Drink
The pay-bar offers wines, beers, soft and hot drinks, along with chips, chocolate and, importantly, ice creams!
The Somerville Auditorium is also a BYO venue: bring your own picnic and favourite tipple.
We have many picnic tables and grassed areas.
Pre-ordering your gourmet pizza is crucial: order here.
Enjoying your film
The film starts at 8pm until 1 March 2026. From 2 March 2026 the film starts at 7.30pm.
Cushions courtesy of Lotterywest are available.
Seats are not assigned: on your arrival you can reserve a seat with a rug or cushion. Please don't leave single seat gaps.
We have plenty of seating, please do not bring your own.
There are four locations suitable for wheelchair users - please speak to a staff member on your arrival.
Nights can soemtimes be cool, so please rug up.
We treat the Auditorium for mosquitoes, but still bring your preferred mozzie spray.
Lost Property
If you've lost something during your night out, you can report it here.
Visit Perth Festival's website for more information.