Melbourne Theatre Company
2015
life in living colour
mtc.com.au/2015
Subscribe to Melbourne Theatre Company in 2015 and colour your world with great theatre.
Welcome Hello and welcome to another great season of theatrical storytelling at Melbourne Theatre Company. This 2015 program of productions spans a tremendous range of themes and performance styles, from the austere poetry of the Beckett masterpiece Endgame to the thrilling escapism of North by Northwest – and all points in between. As a tribute to the Anzac Centenary, we present Steve Vizard and Paul Grabowsky’s The Last Man Standing, a work promising to be unlike any other in this year of commemorations, as it takes our famous larrikin irreverence as a starting point for an examination of the true Anzac spirit. A new play from Kylie Trounson draws on her own childhood to tell the story of her father, IVF pioneer Emeritus Professor Alan Trounson, while a boutique gem of a musical by Tim Rogers and Aidan Fennessy draws on an iconic album by Rogers to tell a very Australian love story. These world premieres take their place alongside the best and most interesting plays from overseas – some startlingly new, and others exciting revivals. As well as our mainstage season, in 2015 we consolidate all our initiatives of the past two seasons which have been so successful in reaching out to new audiences in Melbourne and beyond. Our NEON Festival of Independent Theatre is back for its third year, as is the popular Cybec Electric play reading series. Our vital education productions and programs are enhanced by even more initiatives under the banner Sharing the Light which will see greatly increased access for students, children and families across Victoria. We again tour internationally, taking Complexity of Belonging to Europe, and we present another wonderful family production The Boy at the Edge of Everything. As well, we partner with a number of cultural collaborators including Sydney Theatre Company, Melbourne Recital Centre and SummerSalt Festival, State Theatre Company of SA, Kay + McLean Productions, Warner Bros. Theater Ventures, Multicultural Arts Victoria and MPavilion.
I am also delighted that Season 2015 sees two alumni of our inaugural Women Directors’ Program, Naomi Edwards and Clare Watson, making their mainstage MTC debuts with two new works. In these myriad ways, MTC is putting the transformative power of live theatre and storytelling within reach of the six million citizens of Victoria, as well as a national and international audience. On behalf of the Board, Executive Director Virginia Lovett and the entire MTC team, I invite you to be enthralled, delighted, provoked and challenged with us in 2015. Brett Sheehy AO Artistic Director
Contents
Productions 4 Jumpy 6 What Rhymes with Cars and Girls 8 Endgame 10 The Waiting Room 12 North by Northwest 14 Birdland 16 Death and the Maiden 18 The Weir 20 Betrayal 22 Buyer and Cellar 24 The Last Man Standing 26 The Boy at the Edge of Everything (School Holiday Add-On) 30 MTC Foundation 32 MTC Education 34 NEON Festival of Independent Theatre 36 Artist Access Booking and Subscription Information 40 42 44 50 53 54 55 60
Subscription benefits How to book and prices Performance diary Membership program Online communications Subscriber information Accessibility Plan your visit
mtc2015
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mtc.com.au 03 8688 0800
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MTC 2015 Productions
Australian Premiere
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31 January – 14 March Southbank Theatre, The Sumner
The Telegraph
Free production briefing 27 January, 6pm
‘The funniest new play the West End has seen in ages.’
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Donor event 17 February, post-show cocktail party
‘Another massive, stonking hit! We literally laughed so much that it hurt!’
Cast includes Jane Turner Director Pamela Rabe Set Designer Michael Hankin Lighting Designer Matt Scott Voice & Dialect Coach Leith McPherson
Heat
‘Makes the audience giggle, gasp and groan in painful recognition.’ Mail On Sunday
jumpy
by April De Angelis We welcome back Jane Turner to MTC, taking centre-stage in April De Angelis’ West End hit, a hilarious domestic comedy of frazzled hopes and parental anxiety. Turning fifty isn’t the worst of it for Hilary. Nor is it the feeling that life has passed her by, that her marriage is failing, or that her job is going nowhere. It’s not even the feeling of suffocation and panic that overcomes her at unexpected moments. Oh no, the worst of it is her fifteen year-old daughter, Tilly, wayward, precocious and contrary, driving her to hairclutching despair. But perhaps it’s
not even that. Could it just be that young Tilly insists on grabbing every freedom that passing time has denied her mother? Eventually, every liberal and fairminded parent finds themselves at the head of a dictatorship. Jumpy takes aim at the contemporary mother-daughter relationship and with Pamela Rabe in the director’s chair, it’s a comedy sure to hit the mark.
#mtcJumpy Comedy Pictured: Jane Turner Contains strong language and adult themes For more information on warnings and running time, visit mtc.com.au/Jumpy
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MTC 2015 Productions
World Premiere ‘Tim Rogers is a statesman of Australian music.’ Music Feeds
‘A troubadour from the tip of his felt-brimmed hat to the idiosyncratic chop of his right hand.’
13 February – 28 March Arts Centre Melbourne, Fairfax Studio Free production briefing 9 February, 6pm Director Clare Watson
Rolling Stone
WHAT rhymes with cars & girls
Music and lyrics by Tim Rogers Words by Aidan Fennessy His achingly lyrical first solo album, What Rhymes with Cars and Girls, cemented You Am I frontman Tim Rogers’ already formidable reputation as one of Australia’s premier songwriters. Playwright Aidan Fennessy has threaded these beautiful songs across the class divide to create a tale of love in contemporary Australia. This is the ballad of Tash and Johnno, brought together by a conjunction of the stars and a pizza delivery gone weird. Tash is a smart-mouthed singer in a band and Johnno’s a three-time
loser from the wrong side of the tracks. But, what do you know? It’s love. Almighty love. With an authentic catch and pain in it, like a song in the throat of one who knows how it goes. Knows how love can lift you high and dash you down. Knows that it’s never the coming together, it’s the holding on. What Rhymes with Cars and Girls is a raw, complex, urban romance, a balm for the hardest of hearts and solace for anyone who’s ever been in love.
#mtcRhymes Music, Romance, Drama, Australian story Contains coarse language For more information on warnings and running time, visit mtc.com.au/Rhymes
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MTC 2015 Productions
‘The quintessential dramatist of the 20th Century.’ The Age
21 March – 25 April Southbank Theatre, The Sumner
‘Versatile, dedicated, accomplished and compelling.’
Free production briefing 16 March, 6pm
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Donor event 30 March, post-show cocktail party
Crikey (on Colin Friels)
‘Even in this vision of hell, Beckett makes us laugh, and gasp.’ The Telegraph
Cast includes Colin Friels, Luke Mullins, Julie Forsyth Director Sam Strong Set Designer Callum Morton Associate Set Designer Andrew Bailey Lighting Designer Paul Jackson Sound Designer Russell Goldsmith
endgame by Samuel Beckett Returning to the Company following his triumph in Red, Colin Friels commands the stage in Samuel Beckett’s renowned black burlesque masterpiece, whose laughter at the world is always humane. In a bare room where two windows look out on desolation, four little lives go on. In this petty realm, Hamm is enthroned, blind and old, immobile and unmoved. His aged parents, Nagg and Nell, own nothing but their fading memories. His servant Clov, upstanding and downtrodden, hobbles about performing his ritual
duties, keeping things going for all of them. Four pieces in someone else’s game, playing out their final moves. With a set design from eminent visual artist Callum Morton and a cast that also includes MTC favourites Julie Forsyth and Luke Mullins, MTC’s Associate Artistic Director Sam Strong’s production will drive us laughing towards the dark.
#mtcEndgame Classic, Dark comedy Pictured: Colin Friels, Luke Mullins For more information on warnings and running time, visit mtc.com.au/Endgame
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MTC 2015 Productions
World Premiere ‘An intrinsically Melbourne story.’ The Age
‘Naomi Edwards is a formidable talent with a light touch, bold ideas and the courage to follow them through.’ Stage Noise
‘Doctor Trounson is not just a great thinker. He’s a can do scientist.’ ABC
15 May – 27 June Arts Centre Melbourne, Fairfax Studio Free production briefing 11 May, 6pm Donor event 26 May, post-show dinner Cast includes Belinda McClory, Aaron Pedersen Director Naomi Edwards Lighting Designer Richard Vabre
THE WAITING ROOM
by Kylie Trounson Authentic Australian stories are a rarity on our stages. Even rarer are stories as personal as this by Kylie Trounson, which grapples with the ordinary wonder of conceiving a child and the extraordinary heartbreak when you can’t. Kylie was a child when her father Emeritus Professor Alan Trounson made breakthrough after breakthrough in fertility research. It was 1970s Melbourne and society was divided: was he a hero? Or a mad scientist playing God? The controversy swirled so close to her, yet she was far too young to understand how much was at stake. But now she can see it plain: that
when we speak about conception we speak of the most profound things, of family and faith, our lives and our mortality, and our uncertain place in Nature. There was a world before IVF and a world after. Multi-layered and wide-ranging, The Waiting Room explores how they are not the same world. Created in collaboration with Naomi Edwards, the play received a rapturous response as part of the 2014 Cybec Electric play readings. Now Edwards makes her MTC mainstage directorial debut in a production featuring Aaron Pedersen and Belinda McClory.
#mtcWaiting Comedy, Drama, Australian story Pictured: Belinda McClory, Aaron Pedersen Contains some coarse language For more information on warnings and running time, visit mtc.com.au/Waiting
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MTC 2015 Productions
World Premiere From Director Simon Phillips
6-time Green Room Award-winner 4-time Helpmann Award-winner
‘This loop-the-loop thriller is pure Hitchcock.’ The Independent
1 June – 4 July Arts Centre Melbourne, Playhouse Free production briefing 25 May, 6pm Donor event 8 June, post-show cocktail party Director & Set Designer Simon Phillips Set & Lighting Designer Nick Schlieper Composer Ian McDonald
NOrth by northwest Adapted for the stage by Carolyn Burns Every twist, every thrill, every hairbreadth escape is retained from Alfred Hitchcock’s supreme comedy of suspense in this stunning new stage adaptation from director Simon Phillips and writer Carolyn Burns. When Roger O. Thornhill, a suave and successful advertising executive, is abducted by thugs who insist he is a man called George Kaplan, there’s obviously been a mix up. When they don’t believe him, that’s infuriating. When they try to kill him, that’s frightening. And when they pin a murder on him, that’s time to run!
From New York to North Dakota, Thornhill is chased by spies, Feds, crop-dusting planes and the inevitable cool blonde. Years before the James Bond films there was North by Northwest, a lightning paced thriller that mixed glamour with espionage to make a truly irresistible cocktail. And now it’s a theatrical spectacular, through an extraordinary collaboration between Melbourne Theatre Company, Kay + McLean Productions and Warner Bros. Theater Ventures.
#mtcNorthwest Adventure, Comedy, Suspense For more information on warnings and running time, visit mtc.com.au/Northwest
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MTC 2015 Productions
Australian Premiere
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‘As hypnotically tell-all as the best rock biography.’
6 June – 11 July Southbank Theatre, The Sumner
Exeunt Magazine
Free production briefing 1 June, 6pm
‘One of Britain’s most important contemporary playwrights.’
Donor event 25 June, post-show cocktail party
ABC Arts
‘Ceaselessly inventive critique of rock stardom.’ The Guardian
Cast includes Mark Leonard Winter Director Leticia Cáceres Set Designer Marg Horwell Lighting Designer Andy Turner Composer & Sound Designer Jethro Woodward
BIRDLAND by Simon Stephens From the mercilessly cool pen of Olivier Award-winning playwright Simon Stephens comes a slyly witty character study of an imploding rock star, a lost soul with the whole world at his feet. Fame is Paul’s environment. It’s what he swims in; what he takes in with every breath. Once a pub-rocker with promise, he now packs out stadiums throughout Europe. Everyone wants a piece of him. Thousands chant his name. The multitudes stare up at him. He feels their eyes eating away. Consuming him. Hollowing him out. And when there’s a suicidal leap from a hotel rooftop, he feels the fall.
Fresh from a much-talked about London season, Birdland typifies the innovative, immediate work for which the Royal Court Theatre is famous. Under the direction of MTC’s Associate Director Leticia Cáceres, this lean, contemporary satire of our celebrityobsessed times stars Mark Leonard Winter in his MTC debut.
#mtcBirdland Drama Pictured: Mark Leonard Winter Contains strong language, references to drug use and adult themes For more information on warnings and running time, visit mtc.com.au/Birdland
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MTC 2015 Productions
‘A beautifully constructed psychological thriller.’
18 July – 22 August Southbank Theatre, The Sumner
‘Gripping and harrowing.’
Free production briefing 13 July, 6pm
‘Leticia Cáceres is a director whose uncompromising belief in theatre’s power has been undiminished.’
Donor event 4 August, post-show cocktail party
The Arts Desk
The Telegraph
Meanjin
Cast includes Eugene Gilfedder, Susie Porter Director Leticia Cáceres Set & Lighting Designer Nick Schlieper Composer & Sound Designer THE SWEATS
death and the maiden
by Ariel Dorfman Some plays maintain their relevance because some evils never go away. Ariel Dorfman’s stunning world-wide hit Death and the Maiden is one such work. Military rule is over and the new democracy looks towards a brighter future. But for victims of the old regime, such as Paulina, memories are a prison. Through months of pain and degradation she never saw her tormentor’s face, but she heard his voice, calm yet menacing in her ear, a voice she will never forget.
This night, when her husband Gerardo invites a stranger back to their isolated beach house, she hears that voice again. A psychological thriller and ethical teaser, Death and the Maiden resonates viscerally and intellectually as few plays ever have. Argentinianborn director Leticia Cáceres brings an acute historical awareness to this co-production with Sydney Theatre Company, featuring Eugene Gilfedder and Susie Porter.
A co-production with Sydney Theatre Company
#mtcMaiden Thriller, Political Pictured: Susie Porter Contains adult themes, references to torture and some coarse language For more information on warnings and running time, visit mtc.com.au/Maiden
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MTC 2015 Productions
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‘The Weir is unmissable theatre.’ The Irish Post
‘For shivers, laughs and a night of master storytelling, you cannot top The Weir.’ Time Out New York
‘McPherson is a first-rate spinner of yarns.’ The New York Times
14 August – 26 September Arts Centre Melbourne, Fairfax Studio Free production briefing 10 August, 6pm Donor event 1 September, post-show dinner Cast includes Nadine Garner, Peter Kowitz, Greg Stone Director Sam Strong Lighting Designer Matt Scott Composer & Sound Designer Steve Francis
the weir
by Conor McPherson Theatre’s power as an arena for storytelling meets the great Irish tradition of the bar room tale in Conor McPherson’s brilliant gem of a play about loss and the consolations of connection.
has just moved from Dublin into town seems to be enjoying the stories. What’s the harm in it? Who could know how deeply these stories strike home and that the most heart-chilling story is waiting to be told?
In a small rural pub in the west of Ireland, the regulars and their host fall into swapping ghost stories, the sort of local legends and anecdotes that over the years get stretched in the telling. It’s not their usual entertainment for a weeknight. They’re just showing off, as fellas do, throwing around a little blarney for the benefit of an attractive stranger in their midst. And Valerie, who
There’s nothing more revealing than the tales we choose to tell. Beautifully understated and emotionally elegant, McPherson’s multi-award winning play sees the reunion of Nadine Garner with Private Lives director Sam Strong.
#mtcWeir Drama Pictured: Nadine Garner, Greg Stone For more information on warnings and running time, visit mtc.com.au/Weir
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MTC 2015 Productions
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26 August – 3 October Southbank Theatre, The Sumner
The Telegraph
Free production briefing 24 August, 6pm
‘The greatest, and the most moving, of all Pinter’s plays.’ ‘Each production yields fresh insights.’ The Guardian
‘Harold Pinter is the most influential British playwright of his generation.’ The New York Times
Cast includes Alison Bell, Nathan O’Keefe, Mark Saturno Director Geordie Brookman Lighting Designer Geoff Cobham Associate Set & Costume Designer Ailsa Paterson
betrayal
by Harold Pinter Of the countless eternal love triangles written for the stage, few have matched for coolness Harold Pinter’s gripping depiction of infidelity, as intricate as a spy novel with its cross and double cross.
nothing. Was this silence his betrayal, or his revenge? As memory reels backwards towards the moment the affair started, the lies tangle into a web of deception, and betrayal begets betrayal.
Emma and Jerry meet for the first time since the end of their affair, but the coals they rake over have long grown cold. Emma reveals she is finally going to leave Robert, the husband and best friend they betrayed. When, later that day, Jerry decides to confess all to Robert, he discovers that Robert found out about the affair years ago and said
Alison Bell stars in Pinter’s most arresting relationship drama in this production from State Theatre Company of South Australia, directed by their Artistic Director Geordie Brookman.
A State Theatre Company of South Australia Production
#mtcBetrayal Drama Pictured: Alison Bell Contains some coarse language For more information on warnings and running time, visit mtc.com.au/Betrayal
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MTC 2015 Productions
Australian Premiere ‘A Funny-Girl, Babs inspired comedy’ New York Post
‘The most talked about new comedy of the season!’ The New York Times
‘The show is a crowd-pleaser and it doesn’t take you long to figure out why.’
30 October – 12 December Arts Centre Melbourne, Fairfax Studio Free production briefing 26 October, 6pm Donor event 17 November, post-show dinner Cast Ash Flanders Director Gary Abrahams
The New Yorker
buyer and cellar
by Jonathan Tolins A massive cult hit in New York that went on to a sell-out US tour, Jonathan Tolins’ Buyer and Cellar is a shopaholic’s binge and an adoring fan letter to Barbra Streisand.
business about Alex, an out-of-work actor who takes a job looking after the mall, with dreams of serving its only customer – well, not a word of that is true. At least, not as far as we know!
Let’s be totally clear about this. The play is pure fiction, okay? Well, except of course, the part about a singing legend by the name of Barbra who has a passion for design. And, true, she does have a fabulous house in Malibu, and, yes, in her vast basement she has created her own shopping mall to display all her stuff. But the whole
Green Room Award-winner Ash Flanders stars in this affecting, funny, one-man extravaganza about fame and how it warps us all.
#mtcBuyerCellar Comedy Pictured: Ash Flanders Contains some coarse language For more information on warnings and running time, visit mtc.com.au/BuyerCellar
Presented by special arrangement with Darren Bagert, Dan Shaheen and Ted Snowdon.
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MTC 2015 Productions
World Premiere ‘A gifted writer. By turn reflecting and amusing.’
Sydney Morning Herald (on Steve Vizard)
‘Paul Grabowsky’s history is still in the making but could fill an encyclopaedia already.’ ArtsHub
‘A master of timing, milking every word for comedy.’ Australian Stage (on Peter Carroll)
6 November – 12 December Southbank Theatre, The Sumner Free production briefing 2 November, 6pm Donor event 1 December, post-show dinner Cast includes Peter Carroll Director Roger Hodgman Set Designer Richard Roberts Lighting Designer Matt Scott
The last man standing
by Steve Vizard music by Paul Grabowsky In this centennial year of Gallipoli comes a glorious and moving comedy with song, from Steve Vizard and Paul Grabowsky, which cuts into the ANZAC legend and finds its stillbeating larrikin heart.
Perhaps this great Australian can lend weight and dignity to the occasion? But Clarry Flint, a crafty and lovable codger, didn’t get to be the last man standing without knowing when he’s landed on a good thing.
Colonel Raymond Hope, hero of the Afghanistan campaign, is appointed by the government to take charge of the live television event of the year – the Gallipoli Centennial Concert. But arriving at rehearsals to find an all-singing, all-dancing (with a bit of juggling) fiasco, Australia’s most decorated soldier comes close to running up the white flag. Until he hears that, amazingly, the last remaining Gallipoli digger is still alive.
Challenging our sacred cows is an Australian institution, as timehonoured and cherished as the digger myth itself. Directed by former MTC Artistic Director Roger Hodgman, this incisive, hilarious and powerfully evocative evening of story and song, cuts to quick and no one gets off scot-free. Not the politicians hoping to score points, not the ratings-hungry media, and especially not those who try to mask the true brutality of war.
#mtcLastMan Comedy, Music, Australian story Pictured: Peter Carroll Contains strong language For more information on warnings and running time, visit mtc.com.au/LastMan
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MTC 2015 Productions
Australian Premiere ‘It is impossible not to laugh out loud. This is one not to be missed.’ Seattle’s Child Magazine
‘Raises lots of deep questions which will be excellent discussion topics for the family dinner table.’ ParentMap
School Holidays: 23 September – 3 October Performances for Schools: 5 – 9 October Southbank Theatre, The Lawler Director Peter Houghton Recommended for ages 8+
the boy at the edge of eveRYthing by Finegan Kruckemeyer For our family treat this year MTC presents The Boy at the Edge of Everything, a funny and engaging play by Tasmanian writer Finegan Kruckemeyer, which has already had a major touring production in the US.
bored and lonely in the intergalactic quiet. Opposite lives on opposite sides of the cosmos. It would be beyond incredible if they ever met, but one day, completely unscheduled, that’s exactly what happens.
Simon Ives keeps to the schedule. Not just the school schedule with new stuff to learn coming at him all day, but everything else packed into his young life: music lessons, sports practice, clubs, activities and homework. It’s full on and wouldn’t it be great just to find time to think? Meanwhile, way out in space, another boy, with nothing to do that hasn’t already been done, sits
Containing a universe of sly observation and wry jokes, The Boy at the Edge of Everything is an extraterrestrial joyride for ages 8 and up.
Originally commissioned by Trusty Sidekick Theater Company, New York and Seattle Children’s Theater, Washington.
Pictured: Name goes here
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MTC 2015
MTC Foundation
Help us transform lives through theatre.
Clockwise from top left: Yellow Moon (MTC Education); Barrie Kosky in Converstion (NEON); The Visitors (Cybec Electric); Big Bad Wolf (family show)
MTC is proud to announce the launch of the MTC Foundation, a new fund being established to ensure that MTC continues to transform lives now and into the future.
Enquiries about the MTC Foundation: Tiffany Lucas Development Director t.lucas@mtc.com.au 03 8688 0900
You can make a real difference! Help transform lives through theatre by donating to the newly established MTC Foundation. The MTC Foundation will receive, consolidate and distribute all donations to MTC. It will also provide an ongoing revenue stream to help secure MTC’s future. MTC is a not for profit organisation. We receive less than 9.3% of our net revenue from State and Federal grants and ticket sales cover 71.5% of our annual costs. As such, MTC relies significantly on donations. Our Education Program, new playwriting commissions and Youth Scholarships are among the activities not funded by ticket sales or government grants. By donating, you can play an important part in supporting these initiatives.
The MTC Foundation will focus on four key areas of MTC’s business: Innovation Supporting local writers and artists to create and develop groundbreaking works and tell stories that need to be heard. Community Making the magic of theatre accessible to a broad audience through family shows, ticket subsidies, regional touring and disability access services. Education Inspiring over 10,000 Victorian students each year with VCElinked productions, scholarships, workshops, teacher resources and school tours. Southbank Theatre Preserving and ensuring a sustainable Southbank Theatre as a contemporary, iconic landmark in the Melbourne cultural landscape.
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Whether you are inspired by classics or new commissions; whether you believe in the power of education or the thrill of creative collaborations, donating to MTC turns your passion into reality and connects you with all that theatre can be. Donors ($1,000+) enjoy great seats, VIP Ticketing services, invitations to special events and exclusive access to artists.
Artistic Director’s Circle
Benefactors Circle $5,000+ p.a.
Join MTC Artistic Director, Brett Sheehy AO, as part of an exclusive artistic circle and come behind the scenes of MTC. Call Tiffany Lucas, Development Director, to discuss this opportunity 03 8688 0900.
Benefactors are acknowledged on the MTC Foundation Honour Board in Southbank Theatre, in the MTC Annual Report and production programmes as well as on the MTC website.
Advocates Circle
Loyalty Circle
$2,500 – $4,999 p.a.
$1,000 – $2,499 p.a.
Advocates are acknowledged in MTC production programmes and on our website.
Loyalty Circle supporters are recognised in MTC production programmes and on our website.
Giving Circle
$100 – $999 p.a. Giving Circle donors are recognised on the MTC website.
Legacy Circle Please consider making a bequest to MTC. All gifts, large and small, make a lasting difference. Please contact us to discuss your wishes.
Foundation Circles will be displayed in MTC collateral beginning January 2015. All donations to the MTC Foundation over $2 receive a tax deductible receipt. Melbourne Theatre Company is a registered not for profit organisation with Deductible Gift Recipient status and TCC endorsement.
To all our donors we say thank you! Your generosity inspires us on and off stage. For more information on giving to MTC please contact: Sarah Kimball Philanthropy Manager s.kimball@mtc.com.au 03 8688 0959
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MTC 2015
MTC Education Connecting with students throughout Victoria
‘THIS HAS HONESTLY BEEN THE EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME.’ Sonia, Year 9
MTC’s award-winning Education Program reaches thousands of young people across Victoria every year. We bring world-class productions into the realm of Education and tour to some of the most remote schools in Victoria. Our Youth Scholarship Course offers an immersive drama experience to marginalised students, and MTC Ambassadors are welcomed into the MTC family for a year of theatrical adventures. We also support the study of VCE Drama and Theatre Studies through targeted workshops, talks and resources. To view our full program visit mtc.com.au/education or call MTC HQ on 03 8688 0900.
MTC 2015
Crown Resorts Foundation and MTC Partnership Melbourne Theatre Company’s ability to put the transformative power of theatre and live storytelling within reach of Victorian students and families has received a major boost, with the recent announcement of a five-year $2.5 million Sharing the Light initiative, in partnership with Crown Resorts Foundation. The first Victorian arts initiative to be supported by Crown Resorts Foundation, Sharing the Light comprises four key programs. Crown Resorts’ Student Theatre Pass will provide up to 10,000 disadvantaged students each year with subsidised $5 tickets to MTC shows and subsidised travel costs from outlying areas. Crown Resorts’ Family Theatre Pass will provide families and children in outer Melbourne suburban areas with subsidised $5 tickets to MTC’s family shows. MTC Education on Tour will help MTC tour one educational production to regional Victoria each year. And lastly, MTC and VCA Indigenous Scholarship Program, in partnership with the Wilin Centre for Indigenous Arts and Cultural Development at the Victorian College of the Arts, will help create career pathways for Indigenous students. Sharing the Light will be rolled out from January 2015 and MTC will collaborate with the University of Melbourne to develop a longitudinal evaluation of the initiative across the five-year program.
mtc.com.au/sharingthelight
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‘Thank you #mtcNEON for today’s valuable, rare insight into professional directors’ tips and techniques.’ ‘So grateful for forums like this where emerging theatre makers like myself can learn and ask questions.’ ‘Great insights today into producing theatre, thanks!’ ‘Very interesting forum at #mtcNEON this afternoon lots of thoughtful questions and some passionate answers. Go team!’
‘Off to #mtcNEON’s Insights for Emerging Producers today - can’t wait!’ ‘The importance of artistaudience relationships. YES. Inspiring speakers today for #mtcNEON at @MelbTheatreCo’ ‘#mtcNEON “What is Australian theatre now?” terrifying & exciting - left wondering & hoping about what our future will hold. Thanks to all!’
NEON Festival of Independent Theatre
NEON Festival of Independent Theatre was launched to celebrate and support the incredibly exciting and original work of Melbourne’s thriving independent theatre sector. By inviting companies to create their work, their way with no curatorial control, MTC has been able to generate a dynamic conversation between the independent and mainstage theatre sectors. It has been a delight to open up Southbank Theatre as a place of connection, collaboration, discussion, debate and celebration of Melbourne’s truly unique theatre scene and, in 2015, NEON will continue to light up Melbourne.
‘A crucial part of the artistic and
intellectual fabric of Melbourne’s theatre scene.’
The Age
Further details of NEON Festival will be announced in early 2015. Visit mtc.com.au/neon to find out more or follow us on: mtcNEON
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MTC 2015
Artist Access Working creatively with MTC MTC is committed to leading the way in creating and developing opportunities for artists from all backgrounds and at all stages of their careers. In 2015, we continue to cultivate connections with these inspiring artists through a broad range of initiatives. Women Directors’ Program
Secondments
In 2013, MTC implemented a program designed to begin to redress the under-representation of women directors on Australia’s mainstages. Since its inception, several of our 2014 alumni have secured employment in our 2015 mainstage and education seasons, including Clare Watson, Naomi Edwards and Nadja Kostich. MTC’s Women Directors� Program will run again in 2015, and continue to offer leadership training, practical career advice and coaching across a wide range of aspects of the theatre industry, while offering open access to all facets of the Company. This is an initiative designed for both emerging and mid-career artists living in Victoria. The Women Directors' Program has been generously supported by the Sidney Myer Fund.
We offer a limited number of placements for secondments and attachments, where priority is given to those in their final year of tertiary training or first years of professional practice.
Assistant Directors MTC provides aspiring professional directors with the prospect of working closely with senior theatre directors. We provide paid opportunities for both emerging and mid-career directors to be a part of our rehearsal process. We strongly encourage women directors and artists of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to apply.
Playwrights MTC regularly commissions new works from our finest playwrights. While we do not have the resources to assess unsolicited manuscripts, we do work closely with Playwriting Australia and are constantly looking to support fine dramatic writing talent. We gratefully acknowledge The Joan and Peter Clemenger Trust for supporting the commissioning of new Australian plays since 2006.
MTC Connect MTC CONNECT was created in late 2013 as a partnership with Multicultural Arts Victoria (MAV). MAV identified 11 theatre artists of diverse backgrounds who were invited to join us as ambassadors, advocates and facilitators between their communities and MTC. The aim of MTC CONNECT is to further develop MTC’s artistic and audience profiles to more accurately reflect the true Melbourne community. In 2015 the program will include individual masterclasses, one-on-one sessions, attendance to all MTC productions, and programming updates and debriefs throughout the year.
Cybec Electric Play Readings With scripts in hand, some of our best actors, led by terrific directors, will present plays in semi-staged readings. Glimpse into the brave new worlds that may well grace MTC’s mainstage over the coming years. Cybec Electric is only possible due to the support of Roger Riordan AM and The Cybec Foundation. To learn more, or for full details on how to apply for any of our Artist Access initiatives visit mtc.com.au/artistaccess
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MTC out, about and on tour With a raft of initiatives, MTC is extending its theatrical footprint beyond our venues in the cultural precinct, sharing our notion of live storytelling with as many people as possible. Two significant 2014 highlights: MTC had its first international tour in thirty years with its production of Rupert by David Williamson. It toured to the Kennedy Center in Washington DC to a warm reception and standing ovations. 2014 also featured a state-wide regional tour of MTC’s production of Yellow Moon by David Greig, a work specifically created for senior level school students.
In 2015, we’ll continue to be out, about and on tour: MPavilion opens in October 2014 and will feature both in-pavilion activities and arts precinct-wide activities, of which MTC will be a cultural partner. Check the MPavilion program for details. In January and February 2015 MTC is proud to be partnering with our arts precinct neighbours for the inaugural SummerSalt Outdoor Arts Festival, an eclectic and accessible program that will see Victorians descend upon the arts precinct to enjoy Melbourne’s summer with a splash of fun. The full program for this inventive and entertaining arts festival will be launched in late October, when you can view details at summersaltfestival.com.au Complexity of Belonging, MTC’s international co-production with Chunky Move, Melbourne Festival and Brisbane Festival, will tour throughout Europe in 2015. Uniting the artistic forces of one of Europe’s most important theatrical voices,
Complexity of Belonging Photo by Sarah Walker
Falk Richter, with that of Chunky Move’s Artistic Director and choreographer Anouk van Dijk, Complexity of Belonging is a daring and politically charged piece. A masterful take on contemporary theatre, it seamlessly integrates text, movement and music to create a work that is in and of its time. MTC’s production of Jumpy, starring Jane Turner and directed by Pamela Rabe, will tour to Sydney Theatre Company from 26 March to 16 May. We are delighted to be co-producing Death and the Maiden with Sydney Theatre Company, directed by MTC Associate Director Leticia Cáceres, playing at Sydney Theatre Company from 28 August to 10 October. A new MTC Education production I Call My Brothers (by Jonas Hassen Khemiri and translated by Rachel Willson-Broyles), for senior level students will tour into schools throughout regional Victoria.
40
MTC 2015
Booking Information
Why subscribe?
Flexibility
Value
Tailor your subscription to suit your schedule, with a mix of performances; previews, matinees, weekday evenings or weekends.
Save up to 30% off regular ticket prices. The more plays you choose, the bigger the savings. For example, an 11-play Adult Weekend subscriber pays an average of $69 a ticket, a saving of $30 per production.
Don’t worry if your plans change. Subscribers have the ability to change dates and change shows, subject to availability (conditions apply).
It’s also easy to plan now, but pay later with credit card instalments.
Secure additional tickets for family and friends at discounted prices. Pre-purchase discounted programme vouchers for only $10.
Priority booking Subscribers enjoy a priority booking period. In 2014, many performances sold out, but with a subscription your seats are safely locked away in advance.
Plan your social calendar
Behindthe-scenes information
Subscriptions provide the perfect opportunity to catch up regularly with friends. Why not organise a group and help share the joy of theatre?
Our quarterly magazine Scenes and monthly subscriber eNewsletters provide behindthe-scenes information and exclusive offers.
Subscribers save up to 30% and enjoy priority booking
42
MTC 2015
Booking Information
How to book your subscription With our improved online booking system, subscribing online is easier than ever.
Online Visit mtc.com.au/subscriptions and follow the ‘Subscribe Now’ buttons. Note: if you are a current subscriber, please use your existing account (or access our ‘forgotten password’ function) so we can recognise you for priority processing. If you are unsure of your login details please call 03 8688 0800.
Send in a booking form Fill out your booking form and send to: MTC Subscriptions PO Box 918 South Melbourne VIC 3205 You are also welcome to drop off your completed form at the MTC Box Office (Southbank Theatre, 140 Southbank Boulevard, Southbank). Please note: telephone, email and fax bookings cannot be accepted.
What happens next? A confirmation will be sent to the Head Booker within five working days of receipt of your completed booking form. Once your booking is processed, your tickets will be sent to the Head Booker (for more information about Head Bookers see page 54). For further information or assistance, please contact us on 03 8688 0800 during business hours or visit mtc.com.au
Dates to note 4 September 2014
Subscription package bookings open online at 9pm.
12 September 2014
Exclusive booking period for renewing 2014 11–play subscribers and Donors ($1,000+) closes. (see page 55).
6 October 2014
Exclusive booking period for all other renewing subscribers closes.
13 October 2014
Processing of new subscriber bookings commences.
2 December 2014
Tickets for Jumpy, What Rhymes with Cars and Girls, and Endgame go on sale to the general public.
4 March 2015
Tickets for all remaining 2015 Season productions go on sale to the general public.
Please note: bookings will be processed in order of receipt within allocated time periods. Members Subscriptions are fast-tracked, see page 54. Donors ($1,000+) receive preferential seating, see page 31.
Booking Information
MTC 2015
43
Subscription prices Additional Tickets †† 11-Play
9-Play
8-Play
7-Play
North by Northwest*
All other shows
Full Opening Night ¸ p MTC Donors ($1,000+) only
Weekend
1,199
981
872
763
n/a
n/a
759
684
608
553
86
81
Weeknight
715
639
568
525
86
78
Previews
616
567
504
469
82
72
Midweek Matinee
583
549
488
455
81
71
715
648
576
532
86
78
Weeknight
638
594
528
490
86
77
Previews
561
513
456
434
77
67
Midweek Matinee
539
486
432
427
76
66
504
86
76
Senior # / Group 10+ ‡ Weekend
Pensioner / Full-time student / University of Melbourne Staff # Weekend
682
603
536
Weeknight
583
549
488
455
81
71
Previews
495
441
392
364
64
54
Midweek Matinee
484
432
384
357
63
53
275
261
232
224
44
34
Under 30 years of age # All Performances
School Holiday Add-On The Boy at the Edge of Everything
¸ †† #
‡ Conditions apply – see pages 54 and 55 for more information.
32
44
MTC 2015
Performance Diary
Performance diary Jumpy
by April De Angelis 31 January – 14 March Southbank Theatre, The Sumner Free production briefing: Tuesday 27 January, 6pm Hilary is turning 50 and in between feeling that life has passed her by, that her marriage is failing, and that her job is going nowhere, she is being driven to hair-clutching despair by her 15-year-old daughter, Tilly, grabbing every freedom that passing time has denied her mother. Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday 31 Jan-8:00pmP
02 Feb-8:00pmP
03 Feb-8:00pmP
04 Feb-8:00pmP
05 Feb-8:00pmO 06 Feb-8:00pm
07 Feb-4:00pm, 8:30pm
09 Feb-6:30pmF
10 Feb-6:30pm
11 Feb-1:00pm, 8:00pm
12 Feb-8:00pm
13 Feb-8:00pm
14 Feb-4:00pm, 8:30pm
16 Feb-6:30pm
17 Feb-6:30pmD
18 Feb-1:00pm, 8:00pm
19 Feb-8:00pm
20 Feb-8:00pm
21 Feb-4:00pm, 8:30pm
23 Feb-6:30pm
24 Feb-6:30pm
25 Feb-1:00pm, 8:00pm
26 Feb-8:00pm
27 Feb-8:00pm
28 Feb-4:00pm, 8:30pm
02 Mar-6:30pm
03 Mar-6:30pmA
04 Mar-1:00pm, 8:00pm
05 Mar-8:00pm
06 Mar-8:00pm
07 Mar-4:00pmAT, 8:30pm
09 Mar-6:30pm
10 Mar-6:30pm
11 Mar-1:00pm, 8:00pm
12 Mar-8:00pm
13 Mar-8:00pm
14 Mar-4:00pmC, 8:30pm
What Rhymes with Cars and Girls
music and lyrics by Tim Rogers, words by Aidan Fennessy 13 February – 28 March Arts Centre Melbourne, Fairfax Studio Free production briefing: Monday 9 February, 6pm This is the ballad of Tash and Johnno, brought together by a conjunction of the stars and a pizza delivery gone weird. Tash is a smart-mouthed singer in a band and Johnno’s a three-time loser from the wrong side of the tracks. But, what do you know? It’s love. Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
13 Feb-8:00pmP
14 Feb-8:00pmP
16 Feb-8:00pmP
17 Feb-8:00pmP
18 Feb-8:00pmP
19 Feb-8:00pmO
20 Feb-8:00pm
21 Feb-4:00pm, 8:30pm
23 Feb-6:30pmF
24 Feb-6:30pm
25 Feb-1:00pm, 8:00pm
26 Feb-8:00pm
27 Feb-8:00pm
28 Feb-4:00pm, 8:30pm
02 Mar-6:30pm
03 Mar-6:30pm
04 Mar-1:00pm, 8:00pm
05 Mar-8:00pm
06 Mar-8:00pm
07 Mar-4:00pm, 8:30pm
09 Mar-6:30pm
10 Mar-6:30pm
11 Mar-1:00pm, 8:00pm
12 Mar-8:00pm
13 Mar-8:00pm
14 Mar-4:00pm, 8:30pm
16 Mar-6:30pm
17 Mar-6:30pmA
18 Mar-1:00pm, 8:00pm
19 Mar-8:00pm
20 Mar-8:00pm
21 Mar-4:00pmAT, 8:30pm
23 Mar-6:30pm
24 Mar-6:30pm
25 Mar-1:00pm, 8:00pm
26 Mar-8:00pm
27 Mar-8:00pm
28 Mar-4:00pm, 8:30pm
A AUDIO DESCRIBED PERFORMANCE C CAPTIONED PERFORMANCE D DONOR EVENT E EDUCATION PERFORMANCE F FORUM NIGHT O OPENING NIGHT P PREVIEW S AUSLAN INTERPRETED PERFORMANCE T TACTILE TOUR
Endgame
by Samuel Beckett 21 March – 25 April Southbank Theatre, The Sumner Free production briefing: Monday 16 March, 6pm In a bare room where two windows look out on desolation, Hamm is enthroned, blind and old. His aged parents, Nagg and Nell, discuss their fading memories. His servant Clov, upstanding and downtrodden, hobbles about, keeping things going for all of them. Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday 21 Mar-8:00pmP
25 Mar-8:00pmP
26 Mar-8:00pmO
27 Mar-8:00pm
28 Mar-4:00pm, 8:30pm
30 Mar-6:30pmFD 31 Mar-6:30pm
01 Apr-1:00pm, 8:00pm
02 Apr-8:00pm
No performance
04 Apr- 8:30pm
06 Apr-6:30pm
07 Apr-6:30pm
08 Apr-1:00pm, 8:00pm
09 Apr-8:00pm
10 Apr-8:00pm
11 Apr-4:00pm, 8:30pm
13 Apr-6:30pm
14 Apr-6:30pm
15 Apr-1:00pmE, 8:00pm
16 Apr-8:00pm
17 Apr-8:00pm
18 Apr-4:00pmC, 8:30pm
20 Apr-6:30pm
21 Apr-6:30pmA
22 Apr-1:00pmE, 8:00pm
23 Apr-8:00pm
24 Apr-8:00pm
25 Apr-4:00pmAT, 8:30pm
23 Mar-8:00pmP
24 Mar-8:00pmP
The Waiting Room by Kylie Trounson
15 May – 27 June Arts Centre Melbourne, Fairfax Studio Free production briefing: Monday 11 May, 6pm Kylie was a child when her father Emeritus Professor Alan Trounson made breakthrough after breakthrough in fertility research. It was 1970s Melbourne and society was divided: was he a hero, or a mad scientist playing God? Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
15 May-8:00pmP
16 May-8:00pmP
18 May-8:00pmP
19 May-8:00pmP
20 May-8:00pmP
21 May-8:00pmO
22 May-8:00pm
23 May-4:00pm, 8:30pm
25 May-6:30pmF
26 May-6:30pmD
27 May-1:00pm, 8:00pm
28 May-8:00pm
29 May-8:00pm
30 May-4:00pm, 8:30pm
01 Jun-6:30pm
02 Jun-6:30pm
03 Jun-1:00pm, 8:00pm
04 Jun-8:00pm
05 Jun-8:00pm
06 Jun-4:00pm, 8:30pm
08 Jun-6:30pm
09 Jun-6:30pmA
10 Jun-1:00pm, 8:00pm
11 Jun-8:00pm
12 Jun-8:00pm
13 Jun-4:00pmAT , 8:30pm
15 Jun-6:30pm
16 Jun-6:30pm
17 Jun-1:00pm, 8:00pm
18 Jun-8:00pm
19 Jun-8:00pm
20 Jun-4:00pmC, 8:30pm
22 Jun-6:30pm
23 Jun-6:30pm
24 Jun-1:00pm, 8:00pm
25 Jun-8:00pm
26 Jun-8:00pm
27 Jun-4:00pm, 8:30pm
46
MTC 2015
Performance Diary
Performance diary North by Northwest
Adapted for the stage by Carolyn Burns 1 June – 4 July Arts Centre Melbourne, Playhouse Free production briefing: Monday 25 May, 6pm After Roger O. Thornhill is mistakenly abducted by thugs and accussed of murder, it’s time to run! From New York to North Dakota, Thornhill is chased by spies, Feds, crop-dusting planes and the inevitable cool blonde. Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
01 Jun-8:00pmP
02 Jun-8:00pmP
03 Jun-8:00pmP
04 Jun-8:00pmO
05 Jun-8:00pm
06 Jun-4:00pm, 8:30pm
08 Jun-6:30pmFD 09 Jun-6:30pm
10 Jun-1:00pm, 8:00pm
11 Jun-8:00pm
12 Jun-8:00pm
13 Jun-4:00pm, 8:30pm
15 Jun-6:30pm
16 Jun-6:30pm
17 Jun-1:00pm, 8:00pm
18 Jun-8:00pm
19 Jun-8:00pm
20 Jun-4:00pmS, 8:30pm
22 Jun-6:30pm
23 Jun-6:30pm
24 Jun-1:00pm, 8:00pm
25 Jun-8:00pm
26 Jun-8:00pm
27 Jun-4:00pmC 8:30pm
29 Jun-6:30pm
30 Jun-6:30pmA
01 Jul-1:00pm, 8:00pm
02 Jul-8:00pm
03 Jul-8:00pm
04 Jul-4:00pmAT, 8:30pm
Birdland
by Simon Stephens 6 June – 11 July Southbank Theatre, The Sumner Free production briefing: Monday 1 June, 6pm Once a pub-rocker, Paul now packs out stadiums throughout Europe. Everyone wants a piece of him. Thousands chant his name. As the multitudes stare up at him he feels their eyes eating away. And when there’s a suicidal leap from a hotel rooftop, he feels the fall. Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday 06 Jun-8:00pmP
08 Jun-8:00pmP
09 Jun-8:00pmP
10 Jun-8:00pmP
11 Jun-8:00pmO
12 Jun-8:00pm
13 Jun-4:00pm, 8:30pm
15 Jun-6:30pmF
16 Jun-6:30pm
17 Jun-1:00pm, 8:00pm
18 Jun-8:00pm
19 Jun-8:00pm
20 Jun-4:00pm, 8:30pm
22 Jun-6:30pm
23 Jun-6:30pm
24 Jun-1:00pm, 8:00pm
25 Jun-8:00pmD
26 Jun-8:00pm
27 Jun-4:00pm, 8:30pm
29 Jun-6:30pm
30 Jun-6:30pm
01 Jul-1:00pm, 8:00pm
02 Jul-8:00pm
03 Jul-8:00pm
04 Jul-4:00pm, 8:30pm
06 Jul-6:30pm
07 Jul-6:30pmA
08 Jul-1:00pm, 8:00pm
09 Jul-8:00pm
10 Jul-8:00pm
11 Jul-4:00pmAT, 8:30pm
A AUDIO DESCRIBED PERFORMANCE C CAPTIONED PERFORMANCE D DONOR EVENT E EDUCATION PERFORMANCE F FORUM NIGHT O OPENING NIGHT P PREVIEW S AUSLAN INTERPRETED PERFORMANCE T TACTILE TOUR
Death and the Maiden by Ariel Dorfman
18 July – 22 August Southbank Theatre, The Sumner Free production briefing: Monday 13 July, 6pm Through months of pain and degradation Paulina never saw her tormentor’s face, but she will never forget his voice. This night, when her husband Gerardo invites a stranger back to their isolated beach house, she hears that voice again. Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday 18 Jul- 8:00pmP
20 Jul-8:00pmP
21 Jul-8:00pmP
22 Jul-8:00pmP
23 Jul-8:00pmO
24 Jul-8:00pm
25 Jul-4:00pm, 8:30pm
27 Jul-6:30pmF
28 Jul-6:30pm
29 Jul-1:00pm, 8:00pm
30 Jul-8:00pm
31 Jul-8:00pm
01 Aug-4:00pm, 8:30pm
03 Aug-6:30pm
04 Aug-6:30pmD 05 Aug-1:00pm, 8:00pm
06 Aug-8:00pm
07 Aug-8:00pm
08 Aug-4:00pm, 8:30pm
10 Aug-6:30pm
11 Aug-6:30pmA
12 Aug-1:00pm, 8:00pm
13 Aug-8:00pm
14 Aug-8:00pm
15 Aug-4:00pm AT, 8:30pm
17 Aug-6:30pm
18 Aug-6:30pm
19 Aug-1:00pm, 8:00pm
20 Aug-8:00pm
21 Aug-8:00pm
22 Aug-4:00pmC, 8:30pm
The Weir
by Conor McPherson 14 August – 26 September Arts Centre Melbourne, Fairfax Studio Free production briefing: Monday 10 August, 6pm In a small rural pub in the west of Ireland, the regulars and their host fall into swapping ghost stories, trying to impress Valerie who has just moved into town. Who could know how deeply these stories strike home, and that the most heart-chilling story is waiting to be told? Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
14 Aug-8:00pmP
15 Aug-8:00pmP
17 Aug-8:00pmP
18 Aug-8:00pmP
19 Aug-8:00pmP
20 Aug-8:00pmO 21 Aug-8:00pm
22 Aug-4:00pm, 8:30pm
24 Aug-6:30pmF
25 Aug-6:30pm
26 Aug-1:00pm, 8:00pm
27 Aug-8:00pm
28 Aug-8:00pm
29 Aug-4:00pm, 8:30pm
31 Aug-6:30pm
01 Sep-6:30pmD
02 Sep-1:00pmE, 8:00pm 03 Sep-8:00pm
04 Sep-8:00pm
05 Sep-4:00pm, 8:30pm
07 Sep-6:30pm
08 Sep-6:30pm
09 Sep-1:00pm, 8:00pm
10 Sep-8:00pm
11 Sep-8:00pm
12 Sep-4:00pmS, 8:30pm
14 Sep-6:30pm
15 Sep-6:30pmA
16 Sep-1:00pm, 8:00pm
17 Sep-8:00pm
18 Sep-8:00pm
19 Sep-4:00pmAT, 8:30pm
21 Sep-6:30pm
22 Sep-6:30pm
23 Sep-1:00pm, 8:00pm
24 Sep-8:00pm
25 Sep-8:00pm
26 Sep-4:00pmC, 8:30pm
48
MTC 2015
Performance Diary
Performance diary Betrayal
by Harold Pinter 26 August – 3 October Southbank Theatre, The Sumner Free production briefing: Monday 24 August, 6pm Emma meets Jerry after the end of their affair, revealing she is going to leave Robert, the husband and best friend they betrayed. But when Jerry decides to confess all to Robert, he discovers that Robert found out about the affair years ago. Was this silence his betrayal, or his revenge? Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
26 Aug-8:00pmP
27 Aug-8:00pmP
28 Aug-8:00pmP
29 Aug-2:00pmP, 8:00pmO
31 Aug-6:30pmF
01 Sep-6:30pm
02 Sep-1:00pm, 8:00pm
03 Sep-8:00pm
04 Sep-8:00pm
05 Sep-4:00pm, 8:30pm
07 Sep-6:30pm
08 Sep-6:30pm
09 Sep-1:00pm, 8:00pm
10 Sep-8:00pm
11 Sep-8:00pm
12 Sep-4:00pm, 8:30pm
14 Sep-6:30pm
15 Sep-6:30pm
16 Sep-1:00pm, 8:00pm
17 Sep-8:00pm
18 Sep-8:00pm
19 Sep-4:00pm, 8:30pm
21 Sep-6:30pm
22 Sep-6:30pmA
23 Sep-1:00pm, 8:00pm
24 Sep-8:00pm
25 Sep-8:00pm
26 Sep-4:00pmAT, 8:30pm
28 Sep-6:30pm
29 Sep-6:30pm
30 Sep-1:00pm, 8:00pm
01 Oct-8:00pm
02 Oct-8:00pm
03 Oct-4:00pmC, 8:30pm
Buyer and Cellar by Jonathan Tolins
30 October – 12 December Arts Centre Melbourne, Fairfax Studio Free production briefing: Monday 26 October, 6pm Alex, an out-of-work actor, accepts a retail job in a shopping mall. In a basement of a fabulous house in Malibu. Owned by a singing legend. Serving a single customer, by the name of Barbra. Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
30 Oct-8:00pmP
31 Oct-8:00pmP
02 Nov-8:00pmP
03 Nov-8:00pmP
04 Nov-8:00pmP
05 Nov-8:00pmO 06 Nov-8:00pm
07 Nov-4:00pm, 8:30pm
09 Nov-6:30pmF
10 Nov-6:30pm
11 Nov-1:00pm, 8:00pm
12 Nov-8:00pm
13 Nov-8:00pm
14 Nov-4:00pm, 8:30pm
16 Nov-6:30pm
17 Nov-6:30pmD
18 Nov-1:00pm, 8:00pm
19 Nov-8:00pm
20 Nov-8:00pm
21 Nov-4:00pm, 8:30pm
23 Nov-6:30pm
24 Nov-6:30pm
25 Nov-1:00pm, 8:00pm
26 Nov-8:00pm
27 Nov-8:00pm
28 Nov-4:00pm, 8:30pm
30 Nov-6:30pm
01 Dec-6:30pmA
02 Dec-1:00pm, 8:00pm
03 Dec-8:00pm
04 Dec-8:00pm
05 Dec-4:00pmAT, 8:30pm
07 Dec-6:30pm
08 Dec-6:30pm
09 Dec-1:00pm, 8:00pm
10 Dec-8:00pm
11 Dec-8:00pm
12 Dec-4:00pmS, 8:30pm
A AUDIO DESCRIBED PERFORMANCE C CAPTIONED PERFORMANCE D DONOR EVENT E EDUCATION PERFORMANCE F FORUM NIGHT O OPENING NIGHT P PREVIEW S AUSLAN INTERPRETED PERFORMANCE T TACTILE TOUR
The Last Man Standing
by Steve Vizard, music by Paul Grabowsky 6 November – 12 December Southbank Theatre, The Sumner Free production briefing: Monday 2 November, 6pm Tasked with saving the all-singing, all-dancing Gallipoli Centennial Concert, Australia’s most decorated soldier, Colonel Raymond Hope, discovers the last remaining Gallipoli digger is still alive, and might be the ultimate showstopper. Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
06 Nov-8:00pmP
07 Nov-8:00pmP
09 Nov-8:00pmP
10 Nov-8:00pmP
11 Nov-8:00pmO
12 Nov-8:00pm
13 Nov-8:00pm
14 Nov-4:00pm, 8:30pm
16 Nov-6:30pmF
17 Nov-6:30pm
18 Nov-1:00pm, 8:00pm
19 Nov-8:00pm
20 Nov-8:00pm
21 Nov-4:00pm, 8:30pm
23 Nov-6:30pm
24 Nov-6:30pm
25 Nov-1:00pm, 8:00pm
26 Nov-8:00pm
27 Nov-8:00pm
28 Nov-4:00pm, 8:30pm
30 Nov-6:30pm
01 Dec-6:30pmD
02 Dec-1:00pm, 8:00pm
03 Dec-8:00pm
04 Dec-8:00pm
05 Dec-4:00pmC, 8:30pm
07 Dec-6:30pm
08 Dec-6:30pmA
09 Dec-1:00pm, 8:00pm
10 Dec-8:00pm
11 Dec-8:00pm
12 Dec-4:00pmAT, 8:30pm
school holiday add-on
The Boy at the Edge of Everything by Finegan Kruckemeyer
23 September – 3 October Southbank Theatre, The Lawler Simon Ives keeps to the schedule. Meanwhile, way out in space, another boy with nothing to do, sits bored and lonely in the intergalactic quiet. Opposite lives on opposite sides of the cosmos. It would be beyond incredible if they ever met, but one day, completely unscheduled, that’s exactly what happens. Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
23 Sep-11:00am, 2:00pm 24 Sep, 2:00pm, 7:00pmO 29 Sep-11:00am, 2:00pm 30 Sep-11:00am, 2:00pm 1 Oct-2:00pm, 7:00pm
Plus performances for schools 5 – 9 October. School bookings: schools@mtc.com.au or 03 8688 0963.
Friday
Saturday
25 Sep-2:00pm, 7:00pm 26 Sep-11:00am, 2:00pm 2 Oct-2:00pm
3 Oct-11:00am
50
MTC 2015
Booking Information
New membership program Get more out of your MTC experience in 2015 by becoming an MTC Member and receive an exclusive range of privileges throughout the season.
Fast-tracked subscription
Member Discount Card
As an MTC Member your subscription is fast-tracked to the top of the pile.
Save when you show your MTC Members card at any of the participating businesses on our comprehensive list of retail and dining partners, including discounts at Southbank Theatre bars, Script Bar & Bistro and within the Southgate restaurant and shopping precinct.
Members Lounge at Southbank Theatre Relax pre-show and at interval with complimentary drinks and snacks while enjoying stunning views of the Melbourne city skyline from the comfort of the all-new, exclusive Members Lounge. The Members Lounge operates from one hour before all MTC mainstage evening performances at the Sumner on Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings, and during interval (where applicable).
Save 20% on parking MTC Members receive a 20% discount every time you park at Arts Centre Melbourne. You’ll receive a Stored Value Card which allows you to store credit, eliminating the need to queue each time you visit.
Annual Membership Fees
(January to December 2015) $250 individual
$400 joint (two people in the same household) Terms and conditions available on page 54.
It’s easy to join: • Tick the box on your subscription form under Membership • Join online when you subscribe at mtc.com.au/subscriptions
Membership Enquiries For all queries about membership benefits, please contact: Mandy Jones Engagement and Events Manager members@mtc.com.au
MTC Members receive an exclusive range of privileges throughout the season.
Clockwise from top left: The Waiting Room (Cybec Electric 2014); Sam Strong (MTC Associate Artistic Director); The Speechmaker in rehearsal; Leticia Cรกceres (MTC Associate Director).
Booking Information
MTC 2015
53
Join us online
Our monthly eNewsletters are the best way to keep up to date with everything that’s happening; from behind-the-scenes pictures to casting updates, audio interviews, video trailers and more.
To sign up, simply login to the MTC website, click ‘My Account’ (at the top of the page), head to ‘Update Account Details’, and check the box next to MTC eNews. Not sure if you have an online account? Simply contact the box office on 03 8688 0800 or email mtcticketing@mtc.com.au and they will get you linked up.
And don’t forget to join us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to share your experiences at the theatre. Both Southbank Theatre and Arts Centre Melbourne now offer free Wi-Fi, so be sure to login and join the conversation!
Having an online account also allows you to: • Exchange your tickets online for performances at Southbank Theatre (see page 55) • Buy gift vouchers, and have them posted or emailed to you or your recipient • Update your contact details and preferences
MelbourneTheatreCompany
@MelbTheatreCo @MelbTheatreCo melbtheatreco mtc2015
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Booking Information
Subscriber information An A-Z glossary of all you need to know †† Additional Tickets
Forum Nights
A night at the theatre is a great experience to share with family and friends. Subscribers who purchase a 7–11 play package may purchase additional tickets to any show in our 2015 mainstage season for family and friends at discounted prices. These special prices are only guaranteed at the time of purchasing your subscription and may change for purchases made at a later date. Please note due the nature of the North by Northwest production, additional subscriber tickets are priced at an alternate rate, refer to the price list on page 43 for details.
Following selected performances, you can hear the cast, creative team and director discuss the show. Please note, these evenings are very popular, so get in early. MTC Forum Nights are marked F in the Performance Diary.
# Concessions MTC offers concession pricing for various groups. Concessions must be valid at the time of booking. Refunds are not available if you become eligible for a concession after you have booked. Pensioners and Seniors must provide their card number when booking. Under 30s (aged 29 and under) must include documentation indicating proof of age, such as a driver’s licence. Full-time students must attach documentation of current full-time enrolment. University of Melbourne staff must provide a copy of their staff identification card. Proof of concession must be provided each season.
Exchanges If you change your mind about which productions you’d like to include within your package, there’s no need to worry – a variety of ticket exchange options are available – see page 55. Please note, some terms and conditions apply, visit mtc.com.au/info
‡ Group Subscriptions
In 2015, the Members Lounge will be open one hour prior to Mon, Thu, Fri and Sat evening performances of Jumpy, Endgame, Birdland, Death and the Maiden, Betrayal and The Last Man Standing, and at interval where applicable. Members’ subscriptions will be fast-tracked for priority processing for forms received on the same day.
With MTC subscriptions, the more the merrier! Group subscriptions are available for a minimum of 10 people booking for at least seven of the same performances and are available for mail bookings only. All tickets must be purchased at the same time to qualify for the discount. A group of 10 or more can include concessions at the appropriate package price alongside others at the group price.
In the event that the Members Lounge is closed on an advertised night, Members who attend will be issued with complimentary drink and snack vouchers redeemable at the Southbank Theatre bar.
Head Booker
¸ Opening Night Packages
Organising a subscription for other people? If you’re listed first on the booking form (and on the topmost form when multiple forms are submitted together) you will become the point of contact for MTC in case of seating reallocation or other contingencies. Please note, the Head Booker is responsible for giving correct contact, credit card and payment information at the time of booking. All tickets will be mailed to the Head Booker.
Exclusive to MTC Donors ($1,000+), a limited number of full price packages for Main Season productions are available with a minimum of seven Opening Night performances booked. Up to 11 plays can be packaged in total with non Opening Night performances charged at the usual subscription rate. Opening Night tickets can be exchanged, however any price difference is non-refundable. Additional tickets are not available for Opening Nights. Opening Night tickets are not available for productions in the Lawler.
Membership Program The new MTC Members Program includes an exclusive range of benefits. The following terms and conditions apply: For joint memberships, both Members must be registered at the same address. Membership is annual, and is valid from January until December 2015.
Membership cards and benefits are not refundable or transferable. Full details of the MTC Members Program can be found at mtc.com.au/members
^ Pay by Instalments Subscribers paying by credit card can divide their total payment into four easy instalments. The first is payable when you subscribe, with the remaining instalments due on 9 January, 9 April and 9 June 2015. The administration fee for this service is a one-off charge of $14 per card used.
Booking Information
Previews Previews, marked P on the Performance Diary, are the exciting first performances leading up to Opening Night. Note that directors may halt the performance for technical reasons. Previews are presented at a discounted price to compensate for any possible production issues.
Priority Processing for top package subscribers and Donors ($1,000+) Season 2014 11-play subscribers will receive exclusive priority processing until 12 September 2014 in which to renew their 11-play package for Season 2015. Season 2015 11-play subscribers will receive this benefit when renewing their 11-play package (or the largest play package on offer) for Season 2016. Donors ($1,000+) also receive priority processing.
Production Briefings (free) Our briefings give you the opportunity to meet with the creative team and participate in a Q&A session for a behind-thescenes insight into the production before the show’s season begins. There is no need to book, just check the Performance Diary for dates and times and turn up at the theatre.
Programmes Subscribers can pre-purchase discounted programme vouchers for shows at the time of booking a subscription.
Refunds MTC follows the Live Performance Australia Ticketing Code of Practice (see liveperformance.com.au for conditions). As such, tickets cannot be refunded after purchase except if an event is cancelled, rescheduled or significantly relocated as outlined. For full terms and conditions including information about content warnings, babies at performances, lost tickets and school bookings, visit mtc.com.au/info
MTC 2015
Ticket Exchanges MTC subscribers enjoy the flexibility to exchange tickets. 11–play subscription tickets can be exchanged for only $1.50 per ticket. 7–9 play subscription tickets can be exchanged for only $3.50 per ticket. Additional tickets can be exchanged for only $4.40 per ticket.
How to Exchange Exchanges are available from general public on-sale dates (see page 42) subject to availability. Exchanges can be made either in person at the MTC Box Office (Southbank Theatre), by mail to 140 Southbank Boulevard, Southbank VIC 3006, or online for selected performances.
Terms and conditions apply for exchanges. For full details visit mtc.com.au/info
Accessibility MTC is committed to making performances accessible to the widest possible audience. Please make us aware at the time of booking if you will be making use of the Access Services. Audio Description and Tactile Tours
Ask theatre staff for assistance or call 03 8688 0800.
Vision Australia provides audio description for selected shows. Simply call them to book a free small receiver which you collect upon arrival at the theatre. MTC also offers tactile tours of the stage prior to certain shows. Dates are marked A (Audio Described) and T (Tactile Tour) in the Performance Diary.
Auslan Interpreted Performances
Call Vision Australia on 03 9864 9384 for more information.
Captioning and FM Hearing System MTC provides live captioning for selected productions. Dates are marked C in the Performance Diary. Hearing assistance is also available for all mainstage performances in the form of an FM Hearing Loop at Southbank Theatre and Arts Centre Melbourne, and a closed system Listen Pack at Southbank Theatre.
MTC is currently partnering with Arts Centre Melbourne on offering Auslan interpreted performances. Auslan interpretation will be available for North by Northwest, The Weir and Buyer and Cellar. Auslan interpreted performances are marked S in the Performance Diary.
Wheelchair and Mobility Access Wheelchair access and seating that allows more room for the use of mobility aids are available in all theatres.
More Information A dedicated flyer outlining all Access Services is available at mtc.com.au, at Southbank Theatre or by calling 03 8688 0800.
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Southbank Theatre welcomes back
Sydney Dance Company Frame of Mind
Quintett by William Forsythe Frame of Mind by Rafael Bonachela
Appearing for its Australian premiere, Quintett is Forsythe’s poignant masterpiece set to Gavin Bryars’ Jesus’ Blood Never Failed Me Yet. A beautiful tribute and glorious celebration of movement, light and life, Quintett showcases Forsythe’s arched and intricate choreography at its most athletic and arresting. Bonachela’s brand new work Frame of Mind is also shot through with shades of loss and uncertainty, yet brings a very different perspective to these eternal themes. Directing the full power of the talented Sydney Dance Company ensemble, Bonachela brings us a performance of rare force and intensity. Don’t miss this gripping evening of dance – a hymn to the joy and pain of life and a salute to the redemptive power of motion. 5 – 16 May 2015 Southbank Theatre Tickets go on sale 15 September 2014 sydneydancecompany.com/ frameofmind @sydneydanceco
SDCFrame
Dancers Alana Sargent and Cass Mortimer Eipper. Photo by Justin Ridler.
Sydney Dance Company’s 2015 season bursts into life with a powerful double bill – a showcase of deeply personal works from two acclaimed choreographic talents: living legend William Forsythe and Sydney Dance Company’s own Artistic Director, Rafael Bonachela.
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We applaud you! MTC would like to thank our major donors who have generously supported our activities during the past year. All contributions inspire and empower us to transform lives through theatre. $100,000+
Crown Resorts Foundation
Packer Family Foundation
$40,000+
The Joan and Peter Clemenger Trust
The Cybec Foundation
$20,000+
Dr Geraldine Lazarus and Greig Gailey Louise and Martyn Myer AO
Caroline and Derek Young AM Anonymous
$10,000+
Cattermole Family Norman and Betty Lees Macgeorge Bequest Gordon Moffatt AM and Jacqueline Moffatt The Myer Foundation
Sidney Myer Fund Malcolm Robertson Foundation Luisa Valmorbida Maureen Wheeler AO and Tony Wheeler AO Anonymous
$5,000+
Bardas Foundation Sandy Bell and Daryl Kendrick James Best and Doris Young Dr Andrew Buchanan and Peter Darcy Ian and Jillian Buchanan John and Robyn Butselaar The Michael and Andrew Buxton Foundation Marshall Day Acoustics (Denis Irving Scholarship) The Dowd Foundation Professor Margaret Gardner AO and Professor Glyn Davis AC
Jane Hemstritch Anne Le Huray Susanna Mason and the late Noel Mason Ian and Margaret McKellar Daniel Neal and Peter Chalk Tom and Ruth O’Dea Professor David Penington AC and Dr Sonay Hussein Jeanne Pratt AC Pinky Watson Dr Michael and Lynne Wright Anonymous
MTC is a registered not-for-profit organisation with DGR status. All donations over $2 receive a tax-deductible receipt. For more information on supporting MTC please contact Sarah Kimball, Philanthropy Manager, on 03 8688 0959 or s.kimball@mtc.com.au
Details in this brochure are correct at the time of publication. MTC reserves the right to add, withdraw and substitute artists and vary the program should the need arise. MTC Season 2015 brochure concept: MTC Marketing. Art Direction: Emma Wagstaff. Design: Daniel Cordner, Helena Turinski, Emma Wagstaff. Photoshoot coordination: Millie Mullinar. Wardrobe: Sophie Woodward. Hair and make-up: Blondie, Deborah Brider (Viviens Creative). Mainstage photography: Jo Duck (lead), James Green, Bridget Radomski, Bronwen Sharp. Additional photos: Jeff Busby, Benjamin Healley, James Henry, Mandy Jones, Pia Johnson, Tony Lewis, Gina Milicia, Sarah Walker, Heath Warwick.
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‘Audi has long been a supporter of the arts, both globally and locally. The progressiveness and sophistication of Melbourne Theatre Company fits perfectly with Audi. We are proud to once again be a Major Partner for the Season.’ Andrew Doyle, Managing Director, Audi Australia
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Celebrating our partners Leading Partner
Major Partners Opening Night
Media
Production Partners
Season Partners
Corporate Members Donald Cant Watts Corke, Odgers Berndston
MTC is a department of the University of Melbourne.
MTC is assisted by the Commonwealth Government through the Australia Council, its arts funding and advisory body, and by the State Government of Victoria through Arts Victoria.
MTC is a member of Live Performance Australia and the Australian Major Performing Arts Group.
MTC celebrates the support of our generous partners If you would like to join our corporate family or host a private event, please contact our Corporate Partnerships Manager, Dean Hampel on 03 8688 0952 or d.hampel@mtc.com.au
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Plan your visit 2015 Venues Southbank Theatre 140 Southbank Boulevard including the Sumner (559 seats) and the Lawler (150 seats) 03 8688 0800
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Arts Centre Melbourne 100 St Kilda Road including the Playhouse (884 seats) and the Fairfax Studio (376 seats) 1300 182 183
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Getting to our venues
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Accessibility Arts Centre Melbourne For information about There is a range of dining options MTCways in HQ which MTC makes performances within Arts Centre Melbourne. Go T accessible to the widest possible to artscentremelbourne.com.au/ RY S ENT audience, go to page 55, or visit COVyour-visit for further information. mtc.com.au/access T or call 03 8688 0800 Southbank Theatre Foyer Bars AS S ORC Southbank Theatre Foyer DThe Bars open one hour prior to all performances in the Sumner and Dining and Bars the Lawler. They offer a selection of Script Bar & Bistro wines, beers, cider, soft drinks, Within Southbank Theatre, Script confectionery, snacks and tea and Bar & Bistro offers breakfast, coffee. For further information lunch, dinner and post-show about the Southbank Theatre Foyer supper and is open from 7am until Bars including current menus, go late Monday to Friday and from to mtc.com.au/diningandbars two hours prior to Southbank Theatre performance times on Saturday. Book online More information at scriptbar.com.au, email For more information about all bookings@scriptbar.com.au aspects of attending a or call 03 8688 0880. performance at one of our venues, please go to mtc.com.au/your-visit AY W
Parking There is limited street parking in the surrounding streets. The best option is to use one of the many commercial car parks, indicated on the map above. The largest and most convenient for both venues is the Arts Centre Melbourne Car Park. Enter via Sturt St. For disabled parking, there are four bays beside Southbank Theatre on Dodds St and multiple bays within the Arts Centre Melbourne Car Park.
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Tram For routes travelling along St Kilda Road alight at the Arts Precinct stop (opposite NGV International) to walk to Arts Centre Melbourne or Southbank Theatre. Route 1 to South Melbourne Beach travels along Southbank Boulevard. For Southbank Theatre, alight at the Sturt St stop (opposite Melbourne Recital Centre).
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Train Southbank Theatre and Arts Centre Melbourne are both within a ten-minute walk of Flinders Street Station. Cross the Princes Bridge and Arts Centre Melbourne is located on the right, while Southbank Blvd is just past NGV International.
Season 2015 Presented by the University of Melbourne The University of Melbourne is proud of its close association with Melbourne Theatre Company. As a university serving Melbourne, Victorian and international communities through education, research and engagement, it seeks to make a rich contribution to the cultural life of the nation.
Melbourne Theatre Company makes such a contribution with distinction. Since its foundation over sixty years ago, it has provided audiences, writers and performers with unique opportunities for reflection and conversation, sustaining the great tradition of major theatre companies engaging cities and giving life meaning. The University is proud of its long-standing association with MTC, and its 2015 Season.
Subscription enquiries PO Box 918, South Melbourne VIC 3205 Phone: 03 8688 0800 Email: mtcticketing@mtc.com.au General enquiries 252 Sturt Street, Southbank VIC 3006 Phone: 03 8688 0900 Email: info@mtc.com.au
mtc.com.au mtc2015