New Light 2013
Season 2013
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 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 2013 Season.
Melbourne Theatre Company is a department of the University of Melbourne
Contents 2
Welcome to Season 2013
Mainstage productions
Add-on production
Open Door
Additional information
The Other Place by Sharr White Constellations by Nick Payne Other Desert Cities by Jon Robin Baitz True Minds by Joanna Murray-Smith One Man, Two Guvnors by Richard Bean, based on The Servant of Two Masters by Carlo Goldoni, with songs by Grant Olding 14 Solomon and Marion by Lara Foot 16 The Crucible by Arthur Miller 18 The Cherry Orchard by Simon Stone after Anton Chekhov 20 Rupert by David Williamson 22 Zeitgeist: an MTC Innovation 24 The Mountaintop by Katori Hall 4 6 8 10 12
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The Book of Everything by Guus Kuijer, adapted by Richard Tulloch
28 Neon: Festival of Independent Theatre 30 Young audiences 31 Pathways 32 34 35 36 42 45 46 48
Join us in 2013 Package prices Plan your visit Performance diary Booking information Enhance your experience Subscriber information Thank you
WELCOME Hello and welcome to Melbourne Theatre Company 2013. It gives me great pleasure to introduce what promises to be a fantastic season of theatre. In this brochure you will discover our full suite of activities for 2013 – our mainstage productions which comprise our core work, and our Open Door program, which features a vast array of additional projects, many of which are thrilling new initiatives for this next stage of MTC’s extraordinary life. Our theme, New Light, symbolises the energy we bring to making MTC a beacon of innovative storytelling and diverse theatrical experiences. We introduce to you artists and companies with whom we’ve never worked before, we throw new light on great dramatic works and illuminate your theatre experience with a variety of productions, enterprises and special presentations. This includes our first ever transfer of an original West End hit, our first family production in many years, and a celebration of the work of companies from Melbourne’s independent theatre sector. In another exciting first for MTC, we launch a new initiative called Zeitgeist – a unique opportunity for audiences to enjoy the freshest, most contemporary theatre on offer in 2013. With Zeitgeist we take a sidestep from the traditional programming model to ensure the Company presents a truly dynamic and innovative season, bringing you the best of what’s around, right up to the minute. We have also renamed our theatre building Southbank Theatre, grounding it geographically for all of Melbourne to recognise and embrace, and firmly declaring our pride in being at the beating heart of the ongoing Southbank Cultural Precinct development. All of this as the Company celebrates its sixtieth year of producing wonderful theatre, reflecting on a proud history and lighting a new path into the future. Enjoy! Brett Sheehy AO MTC Artistic Director
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New Light 2013
Mainstage Productions
Australian Premiere
Described as New York’s most moving play of the year, Sharr White’s The Other Place drops you into a gripping psychological labyrinth that keeps you gasping at every turn.
‘Packed with plot twists.’
While delivering a lecture at a medical convention, Dr Juliana Smithton experiences a moment of complete disorientation. In the room of doctors she spots a girl in a yellow bikini and then loses the power of speech. Afterwards, no matter how much her highly rational mind tries to sort through the pieces, they refuse to form a coherent picture. All she knows is that people are telling her lies, that her husband is in on it, and that it all began one terrible night long ago at the Other Place.
The New York Times
‘The emotional wallop it delivers is almost shocking.’ New York Daily News
‘75-minute tour de force of narrative ingenuity.’ The Huffington Post
‘Engrossing new drama.’ Bloomberg
A compelling mix of humour and emotional intensity, The Other Place explores a brilliant, inspiring woman’s slow unravelling. Multi-award-winning film director Nadia Tass (Best Director – AFI, Milan Film Festival) returns to the stage to direct a cast led by Catherine McClements and Philip Quast, with original compositions by Paul Grabowsky.
26 January to 2 March Arts Centre Melbourne, Playhouse Cast includes Catherine McClements and Philip Quast Director: Nadia Tass Set Designer: Shaun Gurton Composer: Paul Grabowsky
Pictured: Catherine McClements
Warning: contains strong language and adult themes.
Mainstage Productions
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Mainstage Productions
Mainstage Productions
Australian Premiere HHHHH ‘Playful, intelligent and bursting with ideas.’ The Telegraph
‘A play that feels heaven-sent.’ The New York Times
‘Seldom has a play felt so exhilarating.’ Mail on Sunday
New Light 2013
Parallel universes, alternate realities and string theory set the scene for one of the most exciting new plays of our generation. Winner of the 2012 Harold Pinter Award, Nick Payne is among a handful of truly groundbreaking young playwrights in the English-speaking world. In Constellations he has crafted a work that catapults theatre into the future. A sociable guy, Roland knows a lot about bees. A whip-smart woman, Marianne knows a lot about physics. With little in common, the probability of them meeting, let alone getting along, is slim to none. Yet in a single moment the possibilities are infinite, inexplicable and even miraculous. Witty, fascinating and heartbreaking – this astonishing two-hander has US and UK critics sprinkling superlatives like stardust. Constellations premieres in Australia starring Alison Bell and directed by Leticia Cáceres, in her hotly anticipated mainstage debut as MTC Associate Director.
8 February to 23 March Arts Centre Melbourne, Fairfax Studio Cast includes Alison Bell Director: Leticia Cáceres Set and Costume Designer: Marg Horwell Composer: The Sweats
Pictured: Alison Bell
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Constellations was commissioned and originally produced by the Royal Court Theatre, London. Warning: contains strong language.
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Mainstage Productions
Mainstage Productions
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Australian Premiere
Mixing a nation’s politics with a family in crisis, playwright Jon Robin Baitz uses his extraordinary gifts to bridge the public and the personal in this US smash hit drama.
Nominated for the Pulitzer Prize for Drama (2012)
Ex-Senator Lyman Wyeth and his wife Polly have it all: wealth, fame and a political legacy of real muscle. In the sun-drenched comfort of Palm Springs they welcome their family back home for Christmas for the first time in years. But when their daughter Brooke announces she’s written a memoir about the incident that changed their lives, they feel old wounds re-opening.
Nominated for five Tony Awards, including Best Play (2012)
‘Mesmerizing.’
Entertainment Weekly
‘The most richly enjoyable new play for grown-ups that New York has known in many a season.’
Starring one of Australia’s premier stage actors, Robyn Nevin, this production will feature two thrilling MTC debuts – Associate Artistic Director Sam Strong’s first production in his new role, and the stage design of internationally acclaimed visual artist Callum Morton.
The New York Times
‘Think Arthur Miller’s moral conscience, Edward Albee’s brutal wit plus an original sensibility.’ Newsday
2 March to 17 April Southbank Theatre, The Sumner Cast includes Robyn Nevin Director: Sam Strong Set Designer: Callum Morton Costume Designer: Esther Marie Hayes Lighting Designer: Danny Pettingill Composer/Sound Designer: Steve Francis
Pictured: Robyn Nevin
Warning: contains strong language.
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Mainstage Productions
World Premiere
Alive with her characteristic wit and needle-sharp social observation, this MTC Commission is Joanna Murray-Smith’s most glittering comedy to date.
‘Murray-Smith demonstrates a Stoppardian gift for pithily combining intelligence, wit and pathos.’
Being introduced to your future mother-in-law is an anxious time for a young woman – everyone knows first impressions die hard. Especially for Daisy, whose fiancé’s mother is a conservative Boadicea, Australia’s Iron Lady. The meeting will require careful planning and patient manoeuvring. The last thing Daisy needs is her own leftist parents turning up unexpectedly, or her alcoholic ex-boyfriend opening the cellar door.
The Independent
‘Murray-Smith has Oscar Wilde’s gift for one-liners.’ Daily Mail
‘At home and on the international stage, Murray-Smith’s one of our most successful dramatists.’ The Age
25 April to 8 June Southbank Theatre, The Sumner Director: Peter Houghton
True Minds is not only a hilarious battle of the sexes and political polarities, but also a deeply rewarding exploration of the triumph of modern love.
Mainstage Productions
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Best New Play Critics’ Circle Award (2011) Evening Standard Award (2011) Outer Critics’ Circle Award (2012)
HHHHH ‘The funniest show on the planet.’ Daily Mail
HHHHH ‘One Man, Two Guvnors, one massive hit.’ The Independent
HHHHH ‘A riotous farce. A triumph.’
Mainstage Productions
by Richard Bean, based on The Servant of Two Masters by Carlo Goldoni, with songs by Grant Olding The original West End production of the most successful comedy ever staged by Britain’s illustrious National Theatre tours to Melbourne, directed by Nicholas Hytner. Francis Henshall is hungry. He desperately needs a job after being sacked from his skiffle band. And if two jobs come his way, why shouldn’t he take both? So Francis becomes the minder of Roscoe Crabbe, a vicious London bovver boy, but he’s also running errands around Brighton for a chinless wonder going by the name of Stanley Stubbers. Two guvnors, two pay days, two meal tickets. And as long as they don’t meet each other – it’s money for jam, times two! Richard Bean’s multi-award-winning play is a glorious celebration of the best of British comedy – a unique laugh-out-loud mix of satire, songs, slapstick and sparkling one-liners.
The Guardian
17 May to 22 June Arts Centre Melbourne, Playhouse Cast includes Owain Arthur, Edward Bennett, Amy Booth-Steel, Nick Cavaliere, Colin Mace, Mark Monero, Kellie Shirley, Leon Williams, Rosie Wyatt Director: Nicholas Hytner Physical Comedy Director: Cal McCrystal Designer: Mark Thompson Lighting Designer: Mark Henderson Music and Songs: Grant Olding Sound Designer: Paul Arditti Associate Director/Choreographer: Adam Penford Fight Director: Kate Waters
Pictured: Owain Arthur
A co-presentation with Arts Centre Melbourne
Mainstage Productions
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Australian Premiere Best New South African Play Fleur Du Cap Award (2011)
‘Weaver is one of Australia’s best loved and most enduring actors.’ ABC (Australian Story)
‘“Not to be missed”, “once in a lifetime” and “rare theatrical opportunity” are overtraded critical clichés. This is, however, an occasion where they are apt and fitting.’ Cape Times
‘Will keep you thinking and laughing long after the curtains close.’ What’s On in Cape Town
7 June to 20 July Arts Centre Melbourne, Fairfax Studio Cast includes Jacki Weaver and Pacharo Mzembe Director: Pamela Rabe Set and Costume Designer: Richard Roberts
Pictured: Jacki Weaver
Mainstage Productions
This beautifully wrought drama, handpicked by one of our finest and most beloved actors, Jacki Weaver, heralds another Australian debut of exceptional new international writing. Over the years, Marion has watched her life drain away. Children and husband gone, she ekes out her life in a country utterly transformed. But it’s the only home she has. As the new South Africa prepares for the World Cup finals, old divisions and suspicions seem as deep as ever, and the intruder she has been expecting, dreading and needing, arrives. Will true reconciliation turn darkness into hope? Fresh from her recent international film triumphs, Jacki Weaver takes to the stage in a brilliant contemporary role collaborating with director Pamela Rabe in this stunning gem of a play.
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Mainstage Productions
Mainstage Productions
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‘The theatrical equivalent of a gripping page turner.’
An indisputable masterpiece of twentieth century theatre is revisited in this landmark production, with David Wenham tackling one of the most challenging roles in the dramatic canon.
‘Miller’s oft-told tale of trials, truths, and sorcery, is still a spellbinder.’
A dark magic possesses the Massachusetts town of Salem. The God-fearing citizens are on their guard – no one is beyond suspicion, indeed even the meekest neighbour could be consorting with the Devil. As investigations into witchcraft reach their highest pitch, a young woman points a condemning finger at Elizabeth, the blameless wife of John Proctor. But Proctor finds he cannot save her without unearthing his own black sin.
Newsday
Entertainment Weekly
‘There is no arguing with the enduring relevance and immediacy of the story.’ The New York Times
22 June to 3 August Southbank Theatre, The Sumner Cast includes Anita Hegh and David Wenham Director: Sam Strong Lighting Designer: Paul Jackson Composer/Sound Designer: Kelly Ryall
Pictured: David Wenham
Arthur Miller wrote The Crucible at the height of the McCarthyist witch-hunts, but as the decades roll on it has emerged as a timeless classic – the notions of ‘accuser’ and ‘accused’ burning as fervently today as when it was written.
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World Premiere ‘Stone has earned a reputation as one of the boldest, brightest young theatre makers in the country.’ Time Out
‘Rabe’s performances are so invariably intoxicating.’ The Age
‘Chekhov invented his own form of drama, which blended gravity and hilarity, complexity and mystery.’ The New Yorker
10 August to 25 September Southbank Theatre, The Sumner Cast includes Pamela Rabe Director: Simon Stone Lighting Designer: Niklas Pajanti Composer/Sound Designer: Stefan Gregory
Pictured: Pamela Rabe
Mainstage Productions
Taking the nation’s theatres by storm, Helpmann Award-winning director Simon Stone makes his long-awaited MTC debut with a unique adaptation of one of Chekhov’s most magical and tender plays. Spoilt and sentimental, Ranevskaya returns to her large estate seeking refuge from a failed love affair and impending bankruptcy. But the estate has long ceased making money and neither she nor her feckless brother, Gayev, are willing to face the facts. Fortunately, her former labourer Lopakhin, now a successful property developer, has a plan. Will she yield to the path of modernity, or is the pull of the past too strong? Starring Pamela Rabe, this boldly original Australian interpretation of the Chekhov classic is not to be missed.
Mainstage Productions
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Mainstage Productions
World Premiere
Australia’s best-known playwright returns to MTC as we’ve never seen him before, using the greatest media scandal of modern times as the launchpad for a maverick theatrical presentation.
‘Rupert Murdoch is the most admired – and feared – media mogul of all time.’
Rupert Murdoch was born in Melbourne to one of the most powerful families in the nation. And it was here that his astonishing career began. Right-wing demigod, charismatic businessman, devoted father, news baron with printer’s ink in his veins – Rupert is seemingly omniscient and omnipotent. And then came the Leveson Inquiry.
Business Review Australia
‘Murdoch is the most powerful Australian in the world.’ ABC
A world premiere, this enthralling political fantasia sees Rupert forging his destiny, and making our history, in what promises to be one of the most discussed plays of the decade.
‘Williamson has no peer in depicting modern life.’ The Age
24 August to 28 September Arts Centre Melbourne, Playhouse Director: Lee Lewis
Do you want to become a Friend of Rupert? See page 45 for details.
Mainstage Productions
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Zeit·geist (tsīt’gīst’, zīt’-) — n the spirit of the time; the moral, intellectual, and cultural climate of an age; Zeitgeist is German for time-spirit. 3 October to 9 November Southbank Theatre, The Sumner
Mainstage Productions
While we reveal all our other cards within this year’s brochure, there’s one we’d like to keep up our sleeve. For 2013 we have embraced a desire to present the freshest and most innovative work possible by leaving a slot in our performance calendar completely open. Will it be a great new Australian work hot-off-the-presses, the latest Broadway hit or a stunning re-imagining of a classic? With Zeitgeist you can be assured of an exceptional theatre experience with an unmistakable sense of currency and timeliness. This production will be revealed in 2013, but we’re giving you the opportunity now to secure your tickets for what will be one of the most exciting productions of Melbourne’s theatre calendar. We are really excited about this special initiative and hope you will join us on what promises to be a thrilling adventure.
Mainstage Productions
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Mainstage Productions
Australian Premiere Best New Play Olivier Award (2010)
New Light 2013
Dr Martin Luther King Jr has stood high upon the mountaintop and he’s seen the Promised Land. But on this rainy night in 1968 he mostly feels footsore, weary and sick at heart. From his shabby room at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, the Promised Land seems as far away as ever. He calls down for room service and a maid arrives with coffee – and an unexpected message. Is it a message from the past or the future?
HHHHH ‘Nothing short of a triumph.’
Katori Hall’s inspired and inspiring play was a sell-out on West End and Broadway stages. It tracks not only one long night in American history but, in an astonishing finale, hurtles us through forty-five years of civil rights into the twenty-first century.
‘Wondrous, hilarious, and heartbreaking.’
After making his directorial stage debut with MTC’s acclaimed production of Red, Alkinos Tsilimidos returns in 2013 to direct this Australian premiere.
The Telegraph
The Independent
‘Crackles with theatricality and a humanity more moving than sainthood.’ Newsday
1 November to 14 December Arts Centre Melbourne, Fairfax Studio Cast includes Zahra Newman Director: Alkinos Tsilimidos Set and Costume Designer: Shaun Gurton Lighting Designer: Matt Scott Composer: Tristan Meredith
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Add-on production
Family show! Suitable for anyone aged 9 to 90 Best Production for Children
Sydney Theatre Award (2010)
‘It’s not quite right to say it’s the best children’s show in town, it’s one of the best shows, period. Warm, witty, wise and wonderful.’ New York Post
‘One of the most delightful family productions I have seen for many years.’
Few Australian productions take New York by storm, and fewer are created especially for young people. The Book of Everything has changed all that. It is 1951 and nine year-old Thomas can see things no one else can: tropical fish thriving in the Amsterdam canals, a hailstorm of frogs and even Jesus himself (who turns out to enjoy a good old chinwag). He also sees the unhappiness of his family, and the violence in his father fuelled by the pain that lingers long after the war. All this – good and bad – he carefully records in his magical and hopeful Book of Everything. Funny and touching, The Book of Everything is MTC’s Christmas treat for you and your family. Playwright Richard Tulloch and director Neil Armfield – along with designer Kim Carpenter – have turned a classic children’s story into an enchanting play for all ages.
The Australian
‘Brilliantly executed. Absolutely engrossing.’ The Daily Telegraph
27 November to 22 December (includes special Sunday matinees)
Southbank Theatre, The Sumner Cast includes Matthew Whittet Director: Neil Armfield Set and Costume Designer: Kim Carpenter Lighting Designer: Nigel Levings Composer: Iain Grandage Sound Designer: Stephen Francis Choreographer: Julia Cotton Assistant Director: Eamon Flack
Pictured: Matthew Whittet
A Belvoir and Kim Carpenter’s Theatre of Image co-production
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Open Door
We’re excited to introduce Open Door, a program comprising all of MTC’s activities beyond the big stages. It includes Neon, our new Festival of Independent Theatre, and our extensive Education Program, which sees us create productions solely for young audiences and schools. It also includes our play readings, commissions, Youth Ambassadors Program, Youth Scholarship Course and our new Women Directors Program, among many other initiatives. With Open Door we welcome our regular theatre-goers to explore stimulating new theatre and performances beyond the mainstage shows, and we welcome many more Victorians to our theatrical home for the first time. It is our desire to make the newly-named Southbank Theatre a place of conversation, connection and hospitality – where passionate engagement with theatre is encouraged and inspired.
Neon Festival of Independent Theatre In an exhilarating first for MTC, 2013 will see the launch of a boutique Festival of Independent Theatre. Five Melbourne-based independent theatre companies will have complete creative freedom to stage whatever works they choose, in whatever form they wish, for five short but enthralling two-week seasons in the Lawler. Combined with readings, workshops and forums, the festival will provide audiences with an exceptional range of theatrical experiences. With their productions to be announced in early 2013, the five companies involved are:
Daniel Schlusser Ensemble ‘Schlusser has demonstrated that he is one of the most exciting theatre directors working in Australia.’ Theatre Notes
The Daniel Schlusser Ensemble is an evolving group of performance-makers united by a shared process of creation and defining themselves through theatre, opera and multiplatform, multi-form performance work. Since its inception in 2007, the ensemble has created Life is a Dream, The Dollhouse, Poet#7, Ophelia doesn’t live here anymore, and The Master and Margarita.
Fraught Outfit ‘Electrifying theatre. An affirmation of what great theatre can do.’ Behind the Critical Curtain (on Persona)
Fraught Outfit seeks to create theatre of radical intimacy. Launched in 2010 by Artistic Director Adena Jacobs, in collaboration with a group of highly adventurous performers and designers, Fraught Outfit’s work is a unique theatrical experience: at once disquieting, nightmarish and exposing. Past productions include Sophocles’ Elektra, nominated for three Green Room Awards, and Ingmar Bergman’s Persona.
Open Door
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The Hayloft Project ‘The Hayloft Project is a shining light in Melbourne theatre.’ Herald Sun
Since its foundation in 2007, THE HAYLOFT PROJECT has garnered critical acclaim, Green Room Awards, a Sydney Theatre Award, Melbourne Fringe Awards and sell-out seasons in Melbourne and Sydney. Led by current Artistic Director, Anne-Louise Sarks, the aim of THE HAYLOFT PROJECT is to create intelligent, passionate theatre that lives long in the memory. Their works include Spring Awakening, Platonov, 3xSisters, The Only Child, B.C., Yuri Wells, The Suicide, Delectable Shelter, Thyestes, and The Nest.
The Rabble ‘Cruel, challenging, eerily beautiful.’ Sydney Morning Herald (on Cageling)
THE RABBLE is a collection of artists formed in 2006 by Syd Brisbane, Kate Davis and Emma Valente. THE RABBLE are theatrical mavericks: experimental, surreal, brash, magical, ambitious and original. They have produced many works in both Melbourne and Sydney, including Orlando, Special, The Bedroom Project, Salome: In Cogito Volume III, Cageling and Corvus. Their work has been nominated for several awards, with Special receiving the 2011 Green Room Award for Design Integration.
Sisters Grimm ‘Sisters Grimm are a breath of weird-smelling fresh air in the Melbourne theatre scene.’ Inpress
Sisters Grimm (Ash Flanders and Declan Greene) have been working together for the last six years, cultivating a unique brand of ‘gay DIY drag-theatre’ performed mostly in nontraditional spaces. Their shows incorporate a wide range of art forms and genres: from theatre to performance art to sexploitation cinema. Past works include Summertime in the Garden of Eden, Little Mercy, and Cellblock Booty. May to July 2013 (productions to be announced in 2013) Southbank Theatre, The Lawler Tickets on sale in 2013
1 Ophelia doesn’t live here anymore. Created by Daniel Schlusser Ensemble with Chamber Made Opera and Bell Shakespeare Mind’s Eye 2011. Pictured: Karen Sibbing as Ophelia. Image by Daisy Noyes. 2 Elektra. Created by Fraught Outfit, 2010. Pictured: Zahra Newman. Image by Richie Lipp. 3 The Nest. Created by The Hayloft Project, 2010. Pictured: James Wardlaw, Julia Grace, Sarah Armanious, Alexander England and Stuart Bowden. Image by Jeff Busby. 4 The Bedroom Project. Created by THE RABBLE, 2010. Pictured: Mary Helen Sassman. Image by Josh Davis. 5 Summertime in the Garden of Eden. Created by Sisters Grimm, 2012. Pictured: Agent Cleave and Mzzz Erin Tasmania. Image by Stano Murin.
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Open Door
Young audiences Each year, MTC’s Education Program shines the light for thousands of young people from around the state through access to world-class productions and learning programs. We believe in giving young people the opportunity to experience exceptional theatre, and we hope this will inspire a passion that will last a lifetime. In recent years, MTC Education productions have achieved critical acclaim, awards and sell-out seasons. All student tickets are subsidised and we offer special access initiatives for regional and disadvantaged schools. Coming up for MTC Education in 2013:
Beached
by Melissa Bubnic Directed by Petra Kalive Southbank Theatre, The Lawler 22 April to 10 May 2013 Arty is living a double life. In his head he is an explorer, a movie star, devilishly handsome. In his real life Arty is a blob, a beached whale, Jabba the Hutt in a housing commission flat. At 400kg and rising, he’s a young man literally going nowhere. With free life-saving surgery up for grabs, Arty and his devoted mum JoJo allow a film crew from Shocking Fat Stories to document his last desperate attempts to lose weight before the operation. Can Arty overcome his failings and live the ordinary life he’s only ever imagined? Will physical transformation be his ticket to personal freedom? Using multimedia and puppetry, Beached is a dark satire about reality TV, love, and the person behind the freak.
I Love You, Bro by Adam J A Cass
A production by La Boite Theatre Company Directed by David Berthold Southbank Theatre, The Lawler 30 July to 16 August 2013 Hanging out in his regular online chat room one night, fourteen year-old Johnny meets newcomer MarkyMark who hails from his very own town, Alchester. MarkyMark assumes that Johnny is a girl, and this simple case of mistaken identity opens the door to a misguided love affair which soon turns into obsession. As Johnny’s infatuation with MarkyMark grows, he creates an entire world of characters so he can hide the truth and keep his knight in shining armour on the line. But how long can he keep up the lies before this love story reaches its tragic conclusion? Based on true events, this epic solo performance is a brilliant masterclass for teenagers. Tickets on sale to the general public in early 2013.
Open Door
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Pathways Youth Ambassadors Program
Writing
In 2013 a group of young theatre-lovers will be selected as MTC Ambassadors, embarking on a year-long extension program which offers insight into the world of professional theatre. Each month they will attend MTC productions, meet with artists and staff, and share their experiences of theatre with like-minded peers. Our Ambassadors are valued advocates of MTC in their school, social and online communities.
MTC cares passionately about telling Australian stories and is constantly commissioning playwrights to develop new works. As well as providing financial support for our country’s great writers, our main focus is to develop those playwrights who can most use MTC’s help: mid-career writers looking to step up to writing for a broad state theatre company audience. We gratefully acknowledge support from The Joan and Peter Clemenger Trust, which has been supporting the commissioning of new Australian playwriting at MTC since 2006.
Youth Scholarship Course In October we will welcome young people from all around the state for our annual Youth Scholarship Course, a life-changing week of intensive drama workshops. This program is offered free-of-charge to students who would not usually have access to an extra-curricular drama program due to economic, geographic or personal barriers.
Supporting VCE students and teachers Throughout the year, we support the study of VCE Drama and VCE Theatre Studies by offering a summer school, one-day intensive solo and monologue performance workshops, pre-show talks, post-show Q&As and comprehensive teachers’ resources.
More information For more information about MTC’s Education Program, visit mtc.com.au or join the conversation on our MTC Student Hub Facebook page – facebook.com\MTCStudentHub. MTC needs to raise funds to support our Education Program. If you would like to help us make a lasting impact on the lives of young people, please email fundraising@mtc.com.au
Readings The professional development of emerging playwrights is further supported by providing writers with the opportunity to have their plays workshopped and publicly read by experienced professional actors under the guidance of a dedicated director. We gratefully acknowledge the support of The Cybec Foundation, which has been supporting play readings at MTC since 2002.
Directors MTC provides aspiring professional directors with the opportunity to work closely with senior theatre directors. We provide paid learning experiences for both emerging and mid-career directors to be part of rehearsals for a mainstage production. During this time, they shadow the director, attend production meetings, and have formal opportunities for networking and industry exposure with a focus on their own artistic development. Additionally, in 2013, MTC will be developing a Women Directors Program that aims to give emerging female directors the opportunity to develop their skills and gain professional experience.
Actors We regularly hold general auditions for final year acting students from across the country, providing feedback and support. We also provide the opportunity for over twenty actors to make their debut with the Company each year.
Career development programs MTC has a number of career development and mentoring programs for future theatre professionals, giving those in a course of study or in the first years of a career a chance to work alongside theatre professionals.
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Subscriptions
Join us in 2013
Three great reasons to subscribe
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Savings
Experiences
Flexibility
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The best seats
Packages that suit you
With MTC subscription packages the more plays you see, the more you save!
Subscribers have access to a priority booking period, so you can lock in your seats before they become available to the general public. You can relax knowing you already have tickets when one of our hit shows sells out.
Whether you love the variety of a full subscription, prefer to choose a number of plays that pique your interest or would like to add specific additional tickets to your package, there’s an MTC subscription option to suit you.
Become part of the action
Change dates if you need to
Attend exclusive subscriber play briefings and forum nights with casts and creative teams to enrich your MTC experience.
You can fill your diary with theatre dates safe in the knowledge that you can exchange your tickets for another night if you need to.
Regular get togethers
Switch shows in your package
Choose 7 plays and you’ll save up to 22% on regular ticket prices. Choose 11 plays and you’ll save up to 33% (for a couple that’s a saving of $660 across the season).* Subscribers can also access discounted tickets for family and friends throughout the year, and save on show programmes. Plus, if you’re under 30 you can enjoy a subscription package for less than $25 a play.
Pay in instalments Subscribers can choose to pay in four easy instalments by credit card. * Based on current 2013 single ticket prices.
An MTC subscription provides the perfect opportunity to catch up regularly with family and friends to share the experience of theatre – where conversation is ignited, debates rage on and memories are made. And with great bars and restaurants in the area there’s never been a better excuse to make a night of it.
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. Please note some terms and conditions apply so please see mtc.com.au for more information.
Plus loads of other exclusive benefits For more information about the benefits our subscribers enjoy, including exclusive newsletters and great offers for other plays and films throughout the year, see page 47.
Subscriptions
Bring a friend along A night at the theatre is a great experience to share with family and friends.
Cheap youth packages Under 30s subscription packages are great value ($273 for 11 plays – that’s less than $25 a show) and are the perfect gift for any young theatre enthusiast.
Additional tickets Subscribers can access tickets to most mainstage shows for family and friends at discounted rates. If there’s a show to which you would like to invite someone new to, then buy an additional ticket for them at the time you purchase your subscription.
Gift Vouchers MTC Gift Vouchers are a great way to give someone the gift of theatre, while letting them decide what they want to see. Gift Vouchers can be mailed in a gift wallet or emailed for you to print at home. See mtc.com.au for more information.
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CentreStage Membership Join our community of theatre lovers by becoming a CentreStage Member and enjoy a range of benefits throughout the year.
Supporting Membership Benefits include:
–– Fast tracked subscriptions with priority processing –– A complimentary ticket to the play of your choice* –– Plus all the benefits of Supporting Membership
–– Generous discounts to dress rehearsals and Wednesday matinees –– Complimentary tickets to selected performances* –– Opportunities to attend special events** –– Exclusive Member behindthe-scenes newsletters and updates –– Special offers from MTC partners and supporters
Individual $270 Joint $330
Individual $125 (Concession $95) Joint $175* (Concession $145*)
Leading Membership Benefits include:
More information membership@mtc.com.au 03 8688 0954 or mtc.com.au * Conditions apply. Please see page 46. ** Fees may apply.
34
New Light 2013
Prices
Subscription package prices 11 PLAY
9 PLAY*
8 PLAY*
7 PLAY*
Additional Tickets* ‡
Opening Night + Season Opening Gala¸
1,316
1,104
1,008
912
N/A
Opening Night ††
FULL PRICE
1,076
864
768
672
N/A
WEEKEND (Fri Eve, Sat Mat & Eve)
702
621
552
504
74
WEEKNIGHT (Mon to Thu)
658
576
512
476
71
PREVIEWS
581
504
448
420
65
MIDWEEK MATINEE (Wed)
559
486
432
406
64
SENIOR/GROUP 10+ # WEEKEND (Fri Eve, Sat Mat & Eve)
658
585
520
483
71
WEEKNIGHT (Mon to Thu)
603
531
472
441
70
PREVIEWS
537
468
416
385
60
MIDWEEK MATINEE (Wed)
515
450
400
378
59
WEEKEND (Fri Eve, Sat Mat & Eve)
625
540
480
455
69
WEEKNIGHT (Mon to Thu)
559
486
432
406
64
PREVIEWS
471
405
360
336
50
460
396
352
329
49
273
234
208
196
30
PENSIONER /FULL TIME STUDENT #
MIDWEEK MATINEE (Wed) UNDER 30 # ALL PERFORMANCES
Add-on production The Book of Everything
ADULT
SENIOR #
PENSIONER/ STUDENT #
child # (under 16) UNDER 30 #
FAMILY (2 adults, 2 children)
FAMILY (1 adult, 2 children)
PREVIEWS & MIDWEEK MATINEE
60
55
50
25
30
146
94
All OTHER performances
65
60
55
25
30
156
99
* Special Pricing – One Man, Two Guvnors If you would like to include National Theatre’s UK smash hit One Man, Two Guvnors in your 7, 8 or 9-play subscription package, simply add $20 more per package. Additional tickets are also $20 more per ticket.
†† # ‡ Conditions apply – see pages 46 and 47 for more information. ¸ See page 45 for more information.
Plan Your Visit
New Light 2013
35
Plan your visit Venues Melbourne Theatre Company performs in two venues, located close together in Melbourne’s Arts Precinct in Southbank.
S ST DER N I L F STATION
Southbank Theatre Located at 140 Southbank Boulevard, the award-winning Southbank Theatre (previously known as the MTC Theatre) is the home of MTC. Southbank Theatre hosts productions in the Sumner, a 500-seat theatre, and in the Lawler, a 130-seat studio space.
YARRA RIVER
ARTS CENTRE MELBOURNE RD Y CIT
SOU TH
BAN K
ST
Car parking Limited street parking is available along St Kilda Road, Dodds Street, Sturt Street and Grant Street. Nearby commercial car parks are marked with a on the map (above right).
STUR T
AY SW NG KI
Tram For routes travelling along St Kilda Road (numbers 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 16, 64, 67, 72), you can get off at the Arts Centre stop and walk to all the theatres. Route 1 to South Melbourne Beach travels down Southbank Boulevard and stops right outside Southbank Theatre.
ST
Getting to the theatre Rail Both venues are within a ten minute walk from Flinders Street Station.
VCA SOUTHBANK THEATRE ST NT GRA
DODD S ST
PO W ER
NGV
BLVD
ALEX AND RA A VE
D AR ILD ST K
Arts Centre Melbourne Close by at 100 St Kilda Road, Arts Centre Melbourne contains the 884-seat Playhouse, hosting our large-scale works, while more intimate plays appear at the 376-seat Fairfax Studio.
FEDERATION SQUARE
T RY S ENT COV ST CAS DOR
Bars and dining Script Bar & Bistro Within Southbank Theatre, Script Bar & Bistro offers breakfast, lunch, dinner and post-show supper and is open from 7.30am Monday to Friday and from midday on Saturday. Book online at scriptbar.com.au, email bookings@scriptbar.com.au or call 03 8688 0880. Southbank Theatre foyer bars Opening one hour prior to performances, our foyer bars are ideal for a drink or quick bite before the show or at interval.
The bars showcase a variety of local wines and beers and a selection of Victorian food and confectionery.
Additional information Please see page 46 for information about accessibility. For further information, or to learn more about MTC shows and Southbank Theatre, visit mtc.com.au or join the conversation online:
36
New Light 2013
Performance Diary
Performance Diary The Other Place by Sharr White
26 January–2 March Arts Centre Melbourne, Playhouse Subscriber briefing: Monday 21 January, 6pm While delivering a lecture at a medical convention Dr Juliana Smithton experiences a moment of complete disorientation. Something is definitely wrong. All she knows is that people are telling her lies and that it all began long ago at the Other Place. Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday 26 Jan—8:00pmP
28 Jan—8:00pmP
29 Jan—8:00pmP
30 Jan—8:00pmP
31 Jan—8:00pmO
01 Feb—8:00pm
02 Feb—4:00pm, 8:30pm
04 Feb—6:30pmF
05 Feb—6:30pm
06 Feb—1:00pm, 8:00pm
07 Feb—8:00pm
08 Feb—8:00pm
09 Feb—4:00pm, 8:30pm
11 Feb—6:30pm
12 Feb—6:30pm
13 Feb—1:00pm, 8:00pm
14 Feb—8:00pm
15 Feb—8:00pm
16 Feb—4:00pmC, 8:30pm
18 Feb—6:30pm
19 Feb—6:30pmA
20 Feb—1:00pm, 8:00pm
21 Feb—8:00pm
22 Feb—8:00pm
23 Feb—4:00pmAT, 8:30pm
25 Feb—6:30pm
26 Feb—6:30pm
27 Feb—1:00pm, 8:00pm
28 Feb—8:00pm
01 Mar—8:00pm
02 Mar—4:00pm, 8:30pm
Constellations by Nick Payne
8 February–23 March Arts Centre Melbourne, Fairfax Studio Subscriber briefing: Monday 4 February, 6pm Roland knows a lot about bees. Marianne knows a lot about physics. With little in common, the probability of them meeting, let alone getting along, are slim to none. Yet in a single moment the possibilities are infinite, inexplicable and even miraculous. Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
08 Feb—8:00pmP 09 Feb—2:00pmP, 8:00pmP 11 Feb—8:00pmP
12 Feb—8:00pmP
13 Feb—8:00pmO
14 Feb—8:00pm
15 Feb—8:00pm
16 Feb—4:00pm, 8:30pm
18 Feb—6:30pmF
19 Feb—6:30pm
20 Feb—1:00pm, 8:00pm
21 Feb—8:00pm
22 Feb—8:00pm
23 Feb—4:00pm, 8:30pm
25 Feb—6:30pm
26 Feb—6:30pm
27 Feb—1:00pm, 8:00pm
28 Feb—8:00pm
01 Mar—8:00pm
02 Mar—4:00pm, 8:30pm
04 Mar—6:30pm
05 Mar—6:30pmA 06 Mar—1:00pm, 8:00pm
07 Mar—8:00pm
08 Mar—8:00pm
09 Mar—4:00pmAT, 8:30pm
11 Mar—6:30pm
12 Mar—6:30pm
13 Mar—1:00pm, 8:00pm
14 Mar—8:00pm
15 Mar—8:00pm
16 Mar—4:00pmC, 8:30pm
18 Mar—6:30pm
19 Mar—6:30pm
20 Mar—1:00pm, 8:00pm
21 Mar—8:00pm
22 Mar—8:00pm
23 Mar—4:00pm, 8:30pm
A AUDIO DESCRIBED PERFORMANCE C CAPTIONED PERFORMANCE E EDUCATION PERFORMANCE F FORUM NIGHT O OPENING NIGHT P PREVIEW T TACTILE TOUR
Other Desert Cities by Jon Robin Baitz
2 March–17 April Southbank Theatre, The Sumner Subscriber briefing: Monday 25 February, 6pm In the sun-drenched comfort of Palm Springs ex-Senator Lyman Wyeth and his wife Polly welcome their family back home for Christmas for the first time in years. The reunion seems hopeful, until their daughter announces she’s written a memoir about the incident that changed their lives. Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday 02 Mar—8:00pmP
04 Mar—8:00pmP 05 Mar—8:00pmP 06 Mar—8:00pmP
07 Mar—8:00pmO 08 Mar—8:00pm
09 Mar—4:00pm, 8:30pm
11 Mar—6:30pmF
12 Mar—6:30pm
13 Mar—1:00pmE, 8:00pm 14 Mar—8:00pm
15 Mar—8:00pm
16 Mar—4:00pm, 8:30pm
18 Mar—6:30pm
19 Mar—6:30pm
20 Mar—1:00pm, 8:00pm
21 Mar—8:00pm
22 Mar—8:00pm
23 Mar—4:00pm, 8:30pm
25 Mar—6:30pm
26 Mar—6:30pm
27 Mar—1:00pm, 8:00pm
28 Mar—8:00pm
29 Mar—No perf
30 Mar—4:00pm, 8:30pm
01 Apr—6:30pm
02 Apr—6:30pmA
03 Apr—1:00pm, 8:00pm
04 Apr—8:00pm
05 Apr—8:00pm
06 Apr—4:00pmAT, 8:30pm
08 Apr—6:30pm
09 Apr—6:30pm
10 Apr—1:00pm, 8:00pm
11 Apr—8:00pm
12 Apr—8:00pm
13 Apr—4:00pmC, 8:30pm
15 Apr—6:30pm
16 Apr—6:30pm
17 Apr—1:00pm, 8:00pm
True Minds
by Joanna Murray-Smith 25 April–8 June Southbank Theatre, The Sumner Subscriber briefing: Monday 22 April, 6pm Being introduced to your future mother-in-law is an anxious time for a young woman, especially when your fiancé’s mother is a conservative Boadicea, Australia’s Iron Lady. The last thing Daisy needs is her own leftist parents turning up, or her alcoholic ex-boyfriend opening the cellar door. Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
25 Apr—8:00pmP
26 Apr—8:00pmP
27 Apr—2:00pmP, 8:00pmP
29 Apr—8:00pmO 30 Apr—6:30pm
01 May—1:00pm, 8:00pm
02 May—8:00pm
03 May—8:00pm
04 May—4:00pm, 8:30pm
06 May—6:30pmF 07 May—6:30pm
08 May—1:00pm, 8:00pm
09 May—8:00pm
10 May—8:00pm
11 May—4:00pm, 8:30pm
13 May—6:30pm
14 May—6:30pm
15 May—1:00pm, 8:00pm
16 May—8:00pm
17 May—8:00pm
18 May—4:00pm, 8:30pm
20 May—6:30pm
21 May—6:30pmA
22 May—1:00pm, 8:00pm
23 May—8:00pm
24 May—8:00pm
25 May—4:00pmAT, 8:30pm
27 May—6:30pm
28 May—6:30pm
29 May—1:00pm, 8:00pm
30 May—8:00pm
31 May—8:00pm
01 Jun—4:00pm, 8:30pm
03 Jun—6:30pm
04 Jun—6:30pm
05 Jun—1:00pm, 8:00pm
06 Jun—8:00pm
07 Jun—8:00pm
08 Jun—4:00pm, 8:30pm
38
New Light 2013
Performance Diary
One Man, Two Guvnors
by Richard Bean, based on The Servant of Two Masters by Carlo Goldoni, with songs by Grant Olding 17 May–22 June Arts Centre Melbourne, Playhouse Francis Henshall is hungry. He desperately needs a job after being sacked from his skiffle band, and if two jobs come his way, why shouldn’t he take both? Two guvnors, two pay days, two meal tickets. And as long as they don’t meet each other – it’s money for jam! Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
20 May—8:00pmP 21 May—8:00pmO 22 May—1:00pm, 8:00pm
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
17 May—8:00pmP
18 May—2:00pmP, 8:00pmP
23 May—8:00pm
24 May—8:00pm
25 May—2:00pm, 8:00pm
27 May—6:30pmF
28 May—6:30pm
29 May—1:00pm, 8:00pm
30 May—8:00pm
31 May—8:00pm
01 Jun—2:00pm, 8:00pm
03 Jun—6:30pm
04 Jun—6:30pmA
05 Jun—1:00pm, 8:00pm
06 Jun—8:00pm
07 Jun—8:00pm
08 Jun—2:00pmAT, 8:00pm
10 Jun—6:30pm
11 Jun—6:30pm
12 Jun—1:00pm, 8:00pm
13 Jun—8:00pm
14 Jun—8:00pm
15 Jun—2:00pmC, 8:00pm
17 Jun—6:30pm
18 Jun—6:30pm
19 Jun—1:00pm, 8:00pm
20 Jun—8:00pm
21 Jun—8:00pm
22 Jun—2:00pm, 8:00pm
Solomon and Marion by Lara Foot
7 June–20 July Arts Centre Melbourne, Fairfax Studio Subscriber briefing: Monday 3 June, 6pm Children and husband gone, Marion ekes out her life in a country utterly transformed. But it’s the only home she has. As South Africa prepares for the World Cup finals, old divisions and suspicions seem as deep as ever – and the intruder Marion has been expecting arrives. Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
07 Jun—8:00pmP
08 Jun—2:00pmP, 8:00pmP
10 Jun—8:00pmP
11 Jun—8:00pmP
12 Jun—8:00pmO
13 Jun—8:00pm
14 Jun—8:00pm
15 Jun—4:00pm, 8:30pm
17 Jun—6:30pmF
18 Jun—6:30pm
19 Jun—1:00pm, 8:00pm
20 Jun—8:00pm
21 Jun—8:00pm
22 Jun—4:00pm, 8:30pm
24 Jun—6:30pm
25 Jun—6:30pm
26 Jun—1:00pm, 8:00pm
27 Jun—8:00pm
28 Jun—8:00pm
29 Jun—4:00pm, 8:30pm
01 Jul—6:30pm
02 Jul—6:30pm
03 Jul—1:00pm, 8:00pm
04 Jul—8:00pm
05 Jul—8:00pm
06 Jul—4:00pmC, 8:30pm
08 Jul—6:30pm
09 Jul—6:30pmA
10 Jul—1:00pm, 8:00pm
11 Jul—8:00pm
12 Jul—8:00pm
13 Jul—4:00pmAT, 8:30pm
15 Jul—6:30pm
16 Jul—6:30pm
17 Jul—1:00pm, 8:00pm
18 Jul—8:00pm
19 Jul—8:00pm
20 Jul—4:00pm, 8:30pm
A AUDIO DESCRIBED PERFORMANCE C CAPTIONED PERFORMANCE E EDUCATION PERFORMANCE F FORUM NIGHT O OPENING NIGHT P PREVIEW T TACTILE TOUR
The Crucible by Arthur Miller
22 June–3 August Southbank Theatre, The Sumner Subscriber briefing: Monday 17 June, 6pm The God-fearing citizens of Salem are on their guard – no one is beyond suspicion. As investigations into witchcraft reach their highest pitch, a condemning finger is pointed at Elizabeth, the blameless wife of John Proctor. But Proctor finds he cannot save her without unearthing his own black sin. Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday 22 Jun—8:00pmP
24 Jun—8:00pmP
25 Jun—8:00pmP
26 Jun—8:00pmP
27 Jun—8:00pmO
28 Jun—8:00pm
29 Jun—2:00pm, 8:00pm
01 Jul—6:30pmF
02 Jul—6:30pm
03 Jul—1:00pm, 8:00pm
04 Jul—8:00pm
05 Jul—8:00pm
06 Jul—2:00pm, 8:00pm
08 Jul—6:30pm
09 Jul—6:30pm
10 Jul—1:00pm, 8:00pm
11 Jul—8:00pm
12 Jul—8:00pm
13 Jul—2:00pm, 8:00pm
15 Jul—6:30pm
16 Jul—6:30pm
17 Jul—1:00pm, 8:00pm
18 Jul—8:00pm
19 Jul—8:00pm
20 Jul—2:00pmC, 8:00pm
22 Jul—6:30pm
23 Jul—6:30pmA
24 Jul—1:00pmE, 8:00pm
25 Jul—8:00pm
26 Jul—8:00pm
27 Jul—2:00pmAT, 8:00pm
29 Jul—6:30pm
30 Jul—6:30pm
31 Jul—1:00pmE, 8:00pm
01 Aug—8:00pm
02 Aug—8:00pm
03 Aug—2:00pm, 8:00pm
The Cherry Orchard
by Simon Stone, after Anton Chekhov 10 August–25 September Southbank Theatre, The Sumner Subscriber briefing: Monday 5 August, 6pm Spoilt and sentimental, Ranevskaya returns to her large estate seeking refuge from a failed love affair and impending bankruptcy. Fortunately, her former labourer Lopakhin, now a successful property developer, has a plan. Will she yield to the path of modernity, or stand strong? Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday 10 Aug—8:00pmP
12 Aug—8:00pmP
13 Aug—8:00pmP
14 Aug—8:00pmP
15 Aug—8:00pmO 16 Aug—8:00pm
17 Aug—4:00pm, 8:30pm
19 Aug—6:30pmF
20 Aug—6:30pm
21 Aug—1:00pm, 8:00pm
22 Aug—8:00pm
23 Aug—8:00pm
24 Aug—4:00pm, 8:30pm
26 Aug—6:30pm
27 Aug—6:30pm
28 Aug—1:00pmE, 8:00pm 29 Aug—8:00pm
30 Aug—8:00pm
31 Aug—4:00pm, 8:30pm
02 Sep—6:30pm
03 Sep—6:30pmA 04 Sep—1:00pm, 8:00pm
05 Sep—8:00pm
06 Sep—8:00pm
07 Sep—4:00pmAT, 8:30pm
09 Sep—6:30pm
10 Sep—6:30pm
11 Sep—1:00pm, 8:00pm
12 Sep—8:00pm
13 Sep—8:00pm
14 Sep—4:00pm, 8:30pm
16 Sep—6:30pm
17 Sep—6:30pm
18 Sep—1:00pm, 8:00pm
19 Sep—8:00pm
20 Sep—8:00pm
21 Sep—4:00pm, 8:30pm
23 Sep—6:30pm
24 Sep—6:30pm
25 Sep—1:00pm, 8:00pm
40
New Light 2013
Performance Diary
Rupert
by David Williamson 24 August–28 September Arts Centre Melbourne, Playhouse Subscriber briefing: Monday 19 August, 6pm Rupert Murdoch was born in Melbourne to one of the nation’s most powerful families. And it was here that his astonishing career began. Right-wing demigod, charismatic businessman, devoted father, news baron with printer’s ink in his veins – Rupert is seemingly omniscient and omnipotent.
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday 24 Aug—8:00pmP
26 Aug—8:00pmP 27 Aug—8:00pmP 28 Aug—8:00pmP
29 Aug—8:00pmO 30 Aug—8:00pm
31 Aug—4:00pm, 8:30pm
02 Sep—6:30pmF
03 Sep—6:30pm
04 Sep—1:00pm, 8:00pm
05 Sep—8:00pm
06 Sep—8:00pm
07 Sep—4:00pm, 8:30pm
09 Sep—6:30pm
10 Sep—6:30pm
11 Sep—1:00pm, 8:00pm
12 Sep—8:00pm
13 Sep—8:00pm
14 Sep—4:00pmC, 8:30pm
16 Sep—6:30pm
17 Sep—6:30pmA
18 Sep—1:00pm, 8:00pm
19 Sep—8:00pm
20 Sep—8:00pm
21 Sep—4:00pmAT, 8:30pm
23 Sep—6:30pm
24 Sep—6:30pm
25 Sep—1:00pm, 8:00pm
26 Sep—8:00pm
27 Sep—8:00pm
28 Sep—4:00pm, 8:30pm
Zeitgeist
An MTC Innovation 3 October–9 November Southbank Theatre, The Sumner Subscriber briefing: Monday 30 September, 6pm For 2013 we have embraced a desire to present the freshest and most innovative work possible by leaving this slot completely open. This production will be revealed in 2013 and promises to be one of the most exciting productions of Melbourne’s theatre calendar. Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
03 Oct—8:00pmP 04 Oct—8:00pmP 05 Oct—2:00pmP, 8:00pmP 07 Oct—8:00pmO 08 Oct—6:30pm
09 Oct—1:00pm, 8:00pm
10 Oct—8:00pm
11 Oct—8:00pm
12 Oct—4:00pm, 8:30pm
14 Oct—6:30pmF
15 Oct—6:30pm
16 Oct—1:00pm, 8:00pm
17 Oct—8:00pm
18 Oct—8:00pm
19 Oct—4:00pm, 8:30pm
21 Oct—6:30pm
22 Oct—6:30pmA
23 Oct—1:00pm, 8:00pm
24 Oct—8:00pm
25 Oct—8:00pm
26 Oct—4:00pmAT, 8:30pm
28 Oct—6:30pm
29 Oct—6:30pm
30 Oct—1:00pm, 8:00pm
31 Oct—8:00pm
01 Nov—8:00pm
02 Nov—4:00pm, 8:30pm
04 Nov—6:30pm
05 Nov—6:30pm
06 Nov—1:00pm, 8:00pm
07 Nov—8:00pm
08 Nov—8:00pm
09 Nov—4:00pm, 8:30pm
A AUDIO DESCRIBED PERFORMANCE C CAPTIONED PERFORMANCE E EDUCATION PERFORMANCE F FORUM NIGHT O OPENING NIGHT P PREVIEW T TACTILE TOUR
The Mountaintop by Katori Hall
1 November–14 December Arts Centre Melbourne, Fairfax Studio Subscriber briefing: Monday 28 October, 6pm Dr Martin Luther King Jr stood high upon the mountaintop and he saw the Promised Land. But from his shabby room at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, it seems far, far away. He calls down for room service and a maid arrives with coffee – and an unexpected message. Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
04 Nov—8:00pmP 05 Nov—8:00pmP 06 Nov—8:00pmO
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
01 Nov—8:00pmP
02 Nov—2:00pmP, 8:00pmP
07 Nov—8:00pm
08 Nov—8:00pm
09 Nov—4:00pm, 8:30pm
11 Nov—6:30pmF
12 Nov—6:30pm
13 Nov—1:00pm, 8:00pm
14 Nov—8:00pm
15 Nov—8:00pm
16 Nov—4:00pm, 8:30pm
18 Nov—6:30pm
19 Nov—6:30pm
20 Nov—1:00pm, 8:00pm
21 Nov—8:00pm
22 Nov—8:00pm
23 Nov—4:00pm, 8:30pm
25 Nov—6:30pm
26 Nov—6:30pm
27 Nov—1:00pm, 8:00pm
28 Nov—8:00pm
29 Nov—8:00pm
30 Nov—4:00pmC, 8:30pm
02 Dec—6:30pm
03 Dec—6:30pmA 04 Dec—1:00pm, 8:00pm
05 Dec—8:00pm
06 Dec—8:00pm
07 Dec—4:00pmAT, 8:30pm
09 Dec—6:30pm
10 Dec—6:30pm
12 Dec—8:00pm
13 Dec—8:00pm
14 Dec—4:00pm, 8:30pm
11 Dec—1:00pm, 8:00pm
Add-on production
The Book of Everything
by Guus Kuijer, adapted by Richard Tulloch 27 November–22 December Southbank Theatre, The Sumner Nine year-old Thomas can see things no one else can: tropical fish in the Amsterdam canals, a hailstorm of frogs and even Jesus himself. He also sees his family’s unhappiness and a pain that lingers long after the war. All this – good and bad – he carefully records in his magical Book of Everything. Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
27 Nov—7:00pmP
28 Nov—7:00pmP
29 Nov—7:00pmO 30 Nov—2:00pm, 7:00pm
01 Dec—3:00pm
03 Dec—7:00pm
04 Dec—1:00pm, 7:00pm
05 Dec—7:00pm
06 Dec—7:00pm
07 Dec—2:00pm, 7:00pm
08 Dec—3:00pm
10 Dec—7:00pm
11 Dec—1:00pm, 7:00pm
12 Dec—7:00pm
13 Dec—7:00pm
14 Dec—2:00pm, 7:00pm
15 Dec—3:00pm
17 Dec—7:00pmA
18 Dec—1:00pm, 7:00pm
19 Dec—7:00pm
20 Dec—7:00pm
21 Dec—2:00pmAT, 7:00pm 22 Dec—3:00pm
42
New Light 2013
Booking Information
How to book your subscription Online
What happens next?
Visit mtc.com.au and follow the ‘Subscribe Now’ buttons.
A confirmation will be sent to the Head Booker within five working days of receipt of your completed booking form.
Note: if you have registered online before, please use your existing account (or access our ‘forgot 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 in 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 and fax bookings cannot be accepted.
Once your booking is processed, your tickets will be sent to the Head Booker (for more information about Head Bookers see page 46). For further information or assistance, please contact us on 03 8688 0800 during business hours or visit mtc.com.au
Dates to note 23 August 2012 Bookings open at 9pm. 31 August 2012 Exclusive booking period for renewing 2012 12–play subscribers closes (see page 47). 28 September 2012 Exclusive booking period for renewing subscribers closes. 8 October 2012 Processing of new subscriber bookings commences. 28 November 2012 Single tickets for One Man, Two Guvnors, The Other Place, Constellations and Other Desert Cities go on sale to the general public. 5 March 2013 Tickets for all remaining 2013 Season productions go on sale to the general public. Please note: applications will be processed in order of receipt within allocated booking periods. Patrons and Leading CentreStage Members will receive priority processing. Patrons also receive preferential seating.
Booking Information
New Light 2013
43
Book now and win a trip to Germany Audi and MTC would like to provide you with the ultimate cultural experience Purchase an 11-play subscription and you’ll automatically go into the draw to win the ultimate cultural experience courtesy of Audi, our Major Partner Opening Nights. Fly from Melbourne to Frankfurt where you’ll stay at a five-star hotel for three nights. While you are there you will be treated to an evening at Frankfurt’s historic Alte Oper. Next stop is Recklinghausen for the Ruhr Festival, one of the most popular theatre festivals in the world. Drive from Frankfurt to Recklinghausen in a fabulous Audi through the magnificent German countryside, or opt for the fast-paced German Autobahn. This is the ultimate pit stop for all culture lovers. The prize also includes two nights accommodation at the nearby Hotel Intercontinental Dusseldorf. Full terms and conditions at mtc.com.au/win VIC Permit No. 12/1683
A message from Audi We are delighted to be a major partner for MTC in its sixtieth anniversary year and play a part in ensuring MTC’s wonderful productions continue to engage and excite audiences. Around the world, Audi’s affinity with arts and culture is a direct reflection of our brand values – sophisticated, sporty and progressive. In Australia we live and breathe these values, and in MTC we have found a sophisticated partner who shares our love of all things progressive. Through this strong, successful relationship we are able to inspire, surprise and connect with our audiences through performances of the highest level.
We are committed to supporting innovation and creativity in Australia, and our long history of partnering with the best arts organisations in the country is our way of saying thank you to our supporters and the community.
Uwe Hagen
Managing Director Audi Australia Major Partner Opening Night
44
New Light 2013
Philanthropy
Support MTC As a subscriber you will know how great MTC is. Since discovering how much I enjoy the theatre and becoming a Patron, I have found it impossible not to want to help financially. Melburnians are well-known for their generosity and MTC audiences are no exception. But can you do more? Most of you already understand that providing world class sets, costumes and casts is an expensive business. The revenue generated through ticket sales and the funding we receive from other sources only goes part of the way to covering the cost of our mainstage season. As we welcome our new Artistic Director Brett Sheehy and head towards our sixtieth anniversary in 2013, it is an exciting time for MTC. The arts contribute greatly to Melbourne’s liveability, vitality and prosperity and MTC plays a huge part in this. It is accessible to everyone, employs every type of live performer and creative person, nurtures existing talent and brings new works to a wide audience. We need your help to ensure that the next sixty years will enthral, amaze, employ and influence even more than the past sixty. I especially appeal to our dedicated subscribers to join the ranks of donors and become an MTC Patron. Your donation will have a very real impact on our ability to create art and support artists. Even if you can’t become a Patron, any contribution will make a difference. You can donate now by rounding up the cost of your annual subscription on the form provided, by donating online
at mtc.com.au/support/index.aspx or by calling 03 8688 0954. With your help I know MTC will continue to be internationally recognised and critically acclaimed as one of the world’s great theatre companies, and something that you, your family and friends can continue to enjoy. Lyndsey Cattermole AM MTC Board Member and Patron
Philanthropy
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Enhance your MTC experience Become a Patron Make a Patron donation and play a vital role in the artistic and cultural life of our city. Join Melbourne’s most passionate theatre lovers, catch up with friends and make new ones at exclusive Patron events. In appreciation of their vital support, our Patrons enjoy access to the best seats in the house, flexible ticketing arrangements via a personalised booking service, invitations to meet our actors and artistic teams and acknowledgement in MTC publications. All donations of $1,000 and above are recognised in MTC’s Patrons Program and are fully tax deductible.
Become a Friend of Rupert Support the realisation of this iconic piece of Australian theatre and be guaranteed premium tickets to the Rupert performance of your choice. You’ll experience all the excitement behind-the-scenes with invitations to special events and other activities associated with the show.
Friends $3,000
–– Access premium seats from Rupert’s personal allocation (up to six seats) –– Six invitations to an ‘in conversation’ forum with David Williamson –– Six invitations to a briefing from the creative team –– Six invitations to a backstage tour –– One double invitation to a Gala Dinner during the first week of rehearsals with the opportunity to buy additional tickets –– Recognition in the Rupert show programme
Acquaintances $1,000
–– Access premium seats from Rupert’s personal allocation (up to two seats) –– Two invitations to an ‘in conversation’ forum with David Williamson –– Two invitations to a briefing from the key creative team –– Two invitations to a backstage tour. –– The opportunity to buy tickets to a Gala Dinner during the first week of rehearsals –– Recognition in the Rupert show programme Please note: Benefits apply to those who give specifically to the Friends of Rupert campaign. Contributions do not confer annual Patron Program recognition, benefits or privileges, nor include the cost of Rupert tickets.
Special events 2013 Season Opening Night Gala Dinner ¸ A midsummer night full of drama, glitz and glamour. Subscribers attending the opening performance of The Other Place on 31 January are also invited to purchase tickets to the Season Opening Gala, celebrating the inauguration of another amazing MTC season. Join us before, during and after the performance for a three course dinner in the ANZ Pavilion and celebrate Opening Night with the stars.
60th Anniversary Gala Performance Celebrating six decades of theatrical excellence, MTC will mark its sixtieth anniversary with a gala performance in late August 2013. This coincides with the Opening Night of the Union Theatre Repertory Company’s first production, Colombe, in 1953. MTC Patrons, CentreStage Members and subscribers will be offered an exclusive pre-sale for this event. Watch your inbox (and your mailbox) for details in early 2013 or register your interest at philanthropy@mtc.com.au.
More information
For more information about our special events or becoming a Patron, please email philanthropy@mtc.com.au or call 03 8688 0954.
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Subscriber Information
Subscriber information Terms and Conditions CentreStage Memberships Joint CentreStage memberships must have one address. Complimentary tickets cannot be used for One Man, Two Guvnors, The Book of Everything or as part of a subscription. # Concessions 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 (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. # Group subscriptions 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 can include concessions at the appropriate package price alongside adults at the group price. Head Booker The Head Booker is the first person listed on the booking form (and on the topmost form when multiple forms are submitted together) and is the point of contact for MTC in case of seating reallocation or other contingencies. As MTC takes credit card fraud seriously, the Head Booker is responsible for giving correct contact and payment information at the time of booking. †† Opening Night Package A limited number of Opening Night packages are available through mail bookings only. Opening Night packages require a minimum of seven Opening Night performances but can be combined with non-Opening
Night performances (which will be 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 and discounts for seniors, concessions, groups and under 30s are not applicable. Refunds Tickets cannot be refunded after purchase except if an event is cancelled, rescheduled or significantly relocated as outlined in the Live Performance Australia Ticketing Code of Practice (see liveperformance.com.au for conditions). For full terms and conditions including information about adult themes and strong language, smoking in plays, babies at performances, lost tickets and school bookings, visit mtc.com.au
Accessibility MTC is committed to making performances accessible to the widest possible audience. Audio description and tactile tours Vision Australia provides audio description for selected performances. Simply call them on the number below 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. 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. Please make us aware at the time of booking if you will be making use of the captioning. 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. Ask theatre staff for assistance or call 03 8688 0800.
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 0900.
Subscriber Information
New Light 2013
Benefits In addition to great savings and priority seating, MTC subscribers receive other great benefits including: ‡ Additional tickets Subscribers who purchase a 7–11 play package may purchase additional tickets to any show in Season 2013 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. Instalment payments Subscribers paying by credit card may divide their total payment into four easy instalments. The first is payable when you subscribe, with the balance due on 10 January, 10 April and 10 June 2013. The administration fee for this service is a one-off charge of $14 per card used. Previews Previews, marked P on the Performance Diary, are the exciting first performances leading up to Opening Night. Note that the directors may halt the performance for technical reasons. Previews are presented at a discount price to compensate for any possible production issues.
Programmes Subscribers can pre-purchase discounted programme vouchers for shows at the time of booking a subscription.
2013 Ticket Exchanges
Priority processing for top subscribers Season 2012 12-play subscribers will receive exclusive priority processing until 31 August 2012 in which to renew their 11-play package for Season 2013.
11-play subscription tickets can be exchanged for only $1.50 per ticket.
Season 2013 11-play subscribers will receive this benefit when renewing their 11-play package (or the largest play package on offer) for Season 2014. Newsletters MTC’s quarterly print newsletter Scenes and monthly e-newsletter provide you with behind-thescenes information and special subscriber offers. Subscriber briefings Our briefings give you the opportunity to meet with the creative team and participate in a Q&A session. There is no need to book, just check the Performance Diary for dates and times and turn up at the theatre. Forum nights Following selected performances, you can hear the cast, creative team and director discuss the show. Please note, these evenings are heavily booked, so get in early. MTC Forum Nights are marked F in the Performance Diary.
MTC subscribers enjoy the flexibility to exchange tickets.
7–9 play subscription tickets can be exchanged for only $3.50 per ticket.
How to Exchange Exchanges are available from single ticket 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 3006, or online for selected performances. Terms and conditions apply for exchanges. For full details visit mtc.com.au
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Thank you
Thank you MTC would like to thank the following organisations for their generous support Major Partner Opening Night
Melbourne Theatre Company is a department of the University of Melbourne.
Major Partner Media
Melbourne Theatre Company 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.
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. Editor: Brett Sheehy and Vanessa Rowsthorn. MTC brand identity and brochure concept: Interbrand. Art Direction: Lydia Baic. Design: Helena Turinski, Lydia Baic, Interbrand. Copy: Paul Galloway, Brett Sheehy. Photoshoot Coordination: Lisette Drew. Photography: Marcel Aucar. One Man, Two Guvnors source image: Hugo Glendinning. The Book of Everything source image: Joan Marcus. Rupert and The Mountaintop illustration: Lauren Marriott. I Love You, Bro image: Justine Walpole and La Boite Theatre Company, pictured Leon Cain.
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