2020 +
=
40 YEARS OF
THEATRE WORKS
2020 $20 Tickets FOR EVERY SHOW IN 2020
EXPERIENCE 2020 at $20
At Theatre Works, one of our key values is accessibility. We are committed to removing the barriers to participation and high ticket prices are one of the biggest barriers that prevent audiences from experiencing theatre across the board. To break down this barrier, and to make Theatre Works’ shows, artists and programs accessible to everyone, we will be offering $20 tickets for each performance of every show across the entire year. A handful of seasons will have an allocation of 20 tickets per performance at $20, but for most of our 2020 programming, there will be no full price, concession or student denominations at checkout. $20 tickets will be the sole ticket option.
HOW TO BOOK www.theatreworks.org.au
The entire 2020 program is on sale online now! Book tickets for multiple shows by using the “cart” feature.
2020 at 20
CONNECT WITH US
Bookings: 9534 3388 Office: 9534 4879
The booking line is open from 9:00AM 5:00PM Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri
14 Acland Street, St Kilda, VIC, 3182
Our box office opens 45 minutes before every performance. You can book tickets on the door (pending availability).
/ Theatreworksstkilda
@Theatreworksstkilda
@theatre_works
40 YEARS of THEATRE WORKS Since its founding in 1980, Theatre Works has seen many different iterations, all the while maintaining the same spirit of the young troupe of artists who founded this company 40 years ago. Theatre Work’s history is steeped in hard work, built by the aspirations of countless artists and passionate creators as they continue to deliver what can only be recognised as powerful, relevant and vital performances. In 2020, we celebrate and uphold the values that Theatre Works was built on with an exciting, provoking, playful and proud program. It is no secret that we have recently been faced with challenges, but we are confident we can overcome them creatively by looking to one of the core elements of our existence; our audience. We recently reached out to the public to ask the questions of why - “Why Theatre Works?” And “why now?” We were humbled by the overwhelming response: solidifying that we are a vital part of the future of Australian theatre, not only for artists, but for audiences as well. So this year, we celebrate our independence and remain UNTAMED, championing artists and work that embrace difference and celebrate risk, providing a strong public platform for marginalised conversations and voices. We welcome artists across a breadth of experience and passionately encourage rigorous investigation of performance forms, ensuring the performances represent and reflect our society. We will rise to the challenge of viability, through a new approach to accessibility with our new 2020 at $20 initiative, encouraging more people to discover, create and love theatre by breaking down barriers to participation. In 2020, Theatre Works will build a foundation for the next 40 years of storytelling on our stage and for our audiences. A quick snapshot of our 2020 programming unveils an enthralling season of theatre! In Midsumma Festival, we are presenting 5 theatre & cabaret productions, along with 2 artist development programs. During Comedy Festival we co-present 2 world premieres of new Australian writing and 1 Australian premiere of an internationally-renowned comedy. Looking towards the rest of the year, Theatre Works will: continue our youth programming with 3 bold new children’s works; premiere 9 new Australain works; host 1 VCA Playlisted work; produce 1 large ensemble performance; present our third annual Fringe Festival Hub and support 2 touring productions. Around the Parish Hall we will welcome 7 Associate Artists, 5 Writers in Residence, 20 Student Ambassadors and 1 Theatre Company in Residence. And of course, we welcome you. Many thanks to the artists, volunteers, staff, board and community who ensure Theatre Works remains relevant, vibrant and authentic.
Dianne Toulson, General Manager archive image circa 1983 | THE FIGHT FOR FUNDING
2020 at 20
BITTER EARTH
THIS
Jan 19 - Feb 02
THIS BITTER EARTH BY CHRIS EDWARDS | PRESENTED BY BUB
“I’m just saying, a little lube goes a long way.” Being a twenty-something is hard. Being a twenty-something queer is… something else, I guess. Dating apps, dick pics and a semi-constant state of existential terror. Look, we’ve only got 12 years until climate catastrophe, might as well flail around in a spin class and buy a reusable straw, right? This Bitter Earth is an anthology of millennial crises, from drunken wine nights in dirty hostels to cooked confessions in club-adjacent alleyways. It’s vicious, it’s tender, it hates being touched but it kinda needs a hug.
Written by CHRIS EDWARDS Directed by RILEY SPADARO Set & Costume Design GRACE DEACON Lighting Design PHOEBE PILCHER Performed by MICHAEL CAMERON ELLE MICKEL MATTHEW PREDNY ARIADNE SGOUROS SASHA SIMON ALEXANDER STYLIANOU Photo By MATTHEW PREDNY
And it’s gay. Really gay.
“Razor sharp and scabrously funny… the tone shifts from serious to superFIcial, heartfelt to ironic in a blink.” Audrey Journal
y l r n o w po a r k r a d h s
2020 at 20
Jan 19 - 26
poorly drawn shark By Andrew Sutherland and Vidya Rajan Presented by Squid Vicious
Andrew moves to Singapore, where his features shine and his skin is extra-white. But, in profile, he still looks like a child’s drawing of a shark. And he must keep moving forward, though he smells blood. Superiority tackles self-loathing in this Queer clapback to Eat, Pray, Love and its kin. POORLY DRAWN SHARK is a brutal attack on conventional storytelling: drenched in salt water and biting hungrily at Australia’s fetishisation of Asia. Saviours, daddies, selfies, servitude, and only the sexiest colonial ghosts wash up on the shore as performers Andrew Sutherland and Ming Yang Lim deep dive into a sea of narcissism, need, objectification, and nationhood.
Written by ANDREW SUTHERLAND VIDYA RAJAN Director & Sound Designer JOE PARADISE LUI Lighting Designer & Stage Manager PHOEBE PILCHER AV Designer MICHELLE AITKEN Performed by ANDREW SUTHERLAND MING YANG LIM Photo by MARSHALL STAY
Nauseating, grotesquely funny and brutally aware, prepare to Eat, Prey, Hate in this autobiographical takedown of western travel narratives “a masterclass in subversion … hilarious and hideous … a truly MAGNIFICENT piece of theatre.” Fourth Wall Media “exceptional performances … fast paced, provocative and very camp.” 1/2 OutInPerth
birdoir 2020 at 20
Jan 28 - Feb 1
BIRDOIR
by Six Inches Uncut & Ira Luxuria
Glamour meets grotesquery in this colourful and confusing dreamscape of unsettling creations, hatched fresh from the minds of cabaret deviant Six Inches Uncut and burlesque provocateur Ira Luxuria. Welcome to BIRDOIR, a surreal escape where world-weary lounge singers warble from the confines of dirty cages, decrepit fowl ruffle what remains of their threadbare plumage and your hummingbird heart flits between moments of delight and disgust. Featuring a fierce flock of Melbourne’s finest cabaret, burlesque, dance and comedy performers, BIRDOIR focuses a thickly Vaseline’d lens on the messy and mesmerising oddities of all things avian.
Written & Performed by SIX INCHES UNCUT IRA LUXURIA MAHLA BIRD LEON ANDON KATHRYN KAEHLER Directed & Produced by SIX INCHES UNCUT IRA LUXURIA Sound Design JACINTA ANDERSON Lighting & Set Design THOMAS BEVANS Costume Design CLARA JASPERE ELIJA MONTGOMERY Photo by TEDDY DARLING
It’s high-glamour cabaret, performed by a troupe of hideous human-bird hybrid freaks!
Bizarre. Beautiful. Bird shit crazy.
2020 at 20
NEW BALANCE
Feb 4 - 8
new balance
By Christopher Bryant & Emma Palackic Presented by Before Shot “I remember when I was 8 watching SBS through the crack of my bedroom door. I could see two women getting it on. It was a dangerous and exciting image, and I knew I should forget it… but instead I took it to bed with me. I remember promising myself each time: ‘this is the last time I’ll do this.’ I also remember not believing it, not a even a little bit.” Woven together from intersecting stories of the queer experience, a performer tells a relational story that emerges from the intimacy and surprising universality of the queer experience growing up. In doing so, NEW BALANCE examines and constellates the moments that helped to form us and hurt us in equal measure.
Created by CHRISTOPHER BRYANT EMMA PALACKIC Written & Performed by CHRISTOPHER BRYANT Directed by EMMA PALACKIC Sound Design & Composition ROMY SEVEN FOX A/V Design JUSTIN GARDAM Mentored by NICOLA GUNN Producer MORGAN LITTLE
From the winners of the inaugural Midsumma & Melbourne Fringe Queer Development Award (Intoxication), NEW BALANCE asks: what are the points of connection that the queer community have that straight people cannot? What formulates these points of connection, and what makes them special?
“A hard hitting drama... a genuine, moving performance” The Advertiser on ‘Intoxication’
2020 at 20
leopard print loincloth
Feb 4 - 8
leopard print loincloth By Jake Stewart & Dominic Weintraub Presented by Kissing Booth
There’s something about a room when there’s only men inside it. This play is kinda about firemen and Tom of Finland and Nick Riewoldt and first girlfriends and bad boyfriends and gentleness and sex and fear and yeah. LEOPARD PRINT LOINCLOTH is an episodic jog through the prickly field of contemporary Australian masculinity.
Written by JAKE STEWART Directed by DOMINIC WEINTRAUB Performed by JOEL BEASLEY EAMON DUNPHY BEN GOSS MAX GREENHAM LUEY KEMP-MYKYTA RHYS WILSON
An all-male, ruggedly talented cast of six inhabit this beer-scented new play from Melbourne playwright Jake Stewart (‘Fraternal’, ‘Boys Have Skin’, and ‘The Helendale Nude Footy Calendar’.) Come along, sit back, bring a cute pal, and spend a little time with the boys.
“IT’S THEATRE STRIPPED COMPLETELY BARE AND IT’S GRIPPING.” Aussie Theatre on ‘Sexy Dead Schoolboys’ ““A moving yet entertaining exploration of what people will do to connect.” Theatre Press on ‘The Helendale Nude Footy Calendar’
jan 27 - 31
BEARING WITNESS THROUGH CREATIVE WRITING WITH LACHLAN PHILPOTT Presented as part of wreckedALLprods’ FERAL QUEER CAMP during Midsumma Festival, Lachlan Philpott’s workshops will focus on tapping into your voice through exploring memory and your perspective. We will also explore ways to record what you are witness to right now. Lachlan Philpott is an experienced teacher who aims to make writing processes simple, cathartic, political and truthful. Available to all Feral Queer Camp participants as well as the general public. Tickets on sale now.
Tickets - $25 Apply for Feral Queer Camp at midsumma.org.au Presented by THEATRE WORKS MIDSUMMA FESTIVAL WRECKEDALLPRODS
FEB 01
QUEER QUICKIES A SHOWCASE OF NEW, QUEER WRITING
Take over Theatre Works and bring your creative queer ideas to life.
Apply now at theatreworks.org.au
Queer Quickies is an inclusive and open event for all LGBTIQA+ artists, writers, wordsmiths, choreographers, and theatre-makers.
FREE ENTRY SAT FEB 1ST FEB FROM 4:00pm
Queer Quickies invites you to read through an excerpt from a script or a play that you are writing, or to show something from work in development. Read alone and let your words do the talking, or enlist the help of actors to embody your characters. You could show a movement sequence, or sing some songs. Whatever you decide, the Theatre Works stage is yours.
the
GREAT
australian play
2020 at 20
FEB 19 - 29
THE GREAT australian play By Kim Ho Presented by Montague Basement
Australia, 1930. As the Great Depression tightens its grip on a hungry, fledgling nation, Harold Bell Lasseter charms everyone with his story of a fabulously wealthy “reef” of gold hidden in the vast Interior. Brave adventurers set off in search of riches and salvation… but the expedition descends into a nightmare. Australia, 2020. Relentless funding cuts have left the arts community weary and desperate. Kim Ho persuades Theatre Works that he can fashion the next great Australian play from the legend of Lasseter’s Reef. He conjures five characters and sends them into the desert to retrace the expedition’s footsteps. But for these unlucky souls, trapped inside Kim’s masterpiece, the real nightmare is yet to begin. An ingenious new satire from Patrick White Award-winning playwright Kim Ho, THE GREAT AUSTRALIAN PLAY is a psychedelic romp through the myths of our glorious nation’s past, present and imagined future. Featuring vanishing conmen, Nazi German dingo scalpers and an ancient evil force, this is the dazzling epic we’ve been waiting for.
Written by KIM HO Directed by SARO LUSTY-CAVALLARI Dramaturgy by CARISSA LEE Performed by TAMARA BAILEY SERMSAH BIN SAAD JESSA KONCIC KARL RICHMOND SANDRA UMBAGAICLARKE Producer IMOGEN GARDAM Design CARMODY NICOL Lighting Design NICK MOLONEY Stage Manager LAURA BARNES Image by JACK DIXON-GUNN
“[Kim Ho is] undoubtedly one of the future greats in Australian theatre.” The Dialog
HITMEN THE
THE
HITMEN
THE
2020 at 20
THE
HITMEN
HITME
HITMEN
N
Mar 4 - 15
THE HITMEN by Mish WitTrup | Presented by Baker’s Dozen Theatre Company
It’s just a job interview. There’s nothing to be afraid of... Job hunting can be a real bitch, huh? Hours spent updating your resume with blatant lies about your employment history, days spent waiting to hear back from potential employers, months spent hoping the perfect job will fall onto your lap without having to really work for it. And then you score the job interview! But this isn’t just any job interview. This one is a real killer... THE HITMEN follows six unemployed hopefuls as they take part in a group interview with the hope of obtaining the job of their dreams - a Hitman at K.O.C, Australia’s largest professional agency of contract killers and assassins.
Written by MISH WITTRUP Directed by BLAKE BARNARD Assistant Director RHYS JAMES Stage Manager AYESHA HARRIS-WESTMAN Set Designer THOMAS MITTON Sound Designer ZACHARY CAMM Lighting Designer HARRIE HOGAN Costume Designer LOUISE PARSONS Photo by MATT HOFMANN
Hilariously disturbing and humorously unhinged, THE HITMEN churns the stomach and tickles the funny bone as it propels the audience through the dark spectrum of human behavior and corporate governance. “black and humorous... a witty thriller commentary on unemployment and the crime underclass... such an entertaining and fun night out for lovers of theatre.” Stage Whispers “The work is superb... a splendid show!” Australian Arts Review
WELLBLESS
2020 at 20
Mar 18 - 28
WELLBLESS
By Debra Thomas and Ella Roth Barton
Wellness guru, Juniper, is hosting a conference with her fitness-obsessed sister, Ava. With soldout sessions offering everything from clean eating, PolgaTM (yoga-styled pole dancing), vaginal steaming and crystal healing, and millions of Instagram followers flocking to see them, the sisters look set to take their brand WellBless – wellness when you are #blessed – to entirely new heights. But when Instafamous cancer-patient Maha – who has rejected traditional treatments to follow Juniper’s wellness program – dies onsite, Juniper’s empire looks set to unravel. With the discovery of Maha’s body meaning the end of their incoming millions, the sisters work together with their panel of ‘experts’ to concoct a story about Maha’s complicity in her own death by choosing the path of chemotherapy and filling her body with ‘toxins’.
Written by DEBRA THOMAS ELLA ROTH BARTON Directed by KELLIE TORI Producer CLARE RANKINE Dramaturg SAFFRON BENNER Performed by ELLA ROTH BARTON DEBRA THOMAS JESSICA HACKETT JOSEPH LAI ANDREA MENDEZ LAUREN STEINER Designer BRYNNA LOWEN
With journalist Mindy Flores asking all the questions Juniper should be asking about her own program, the sisters must work quickly to hide the truth. This darkly satirical comedy examines the parasitic world of wellness, a trillion dollar industry that preys on vulnerable women. “Meticulously plotted and sophisticated in its use of form, this is a play of both craft and inspiration.” Andrew Upton (former Artistic Director of STC) on Patrick White Award-winning play ‘The Man’s Bitch’ by Debra Thomas
2020 at 20
HOGWARTS
VOLDEMORT AND THE TEENAGE
apr 1 - 25
VOLDEMORT
and the teenage hogwarts MUSICAL PARODY Presented by Salty Theatre Before Voldemort was He Who Must Not Be Named, he was just Tom Riddle, another moody teen that couldn’t talk to girls. Join Tom and his Hogwarts classmates on a hilarious musical adventure packed with magic, hormones and more than a few murders. This is a Harry Potter musical parody that is sure to leave you spellbound! From the co-creators of ‘Thrones! The Musical Parody’ comes their latest smash parody extravaganza! After two hugely successful back-to-back seasons at The Edinburgh Fringe and The King’s Head in London, VOLDEMORT AND THE TEENAGE HOGWARTS MUSICAL PARODY is being introduced to Australian audiences for the first time ever by Salty Theatre, Red Hot Productions and Theatre Works.
Written by FIONA LANDERS RICHIE ROOT ZACH REINO Music by SCOTT PASSARELLA Directed by SARAHLOUISE YOUNGER Musical Direction by DAVID YOUINGS Produced by THEATRE WORKS SALTY THEATRE RED HOT PRODUCTIONS Photo By AARON WALKER
“It is a wizarding-world extravaganza, FLourished with unforgivable curses, witty humour and muggle-worthy entertainment. A must see for Harry Potter fans.” VoiceMag.uk “An hour loaded with sharply written Potter-parody, gags every few seconds, stellar singing and comedy.” FringeReview.co.uk
2020 at 20
JUNGLE bungle
APR 6 - 11
JUNGLE BUNGLE BY Craig christie PRESENTED BY vtm productions
It’s a new day and a new school for Oliver, and making a new friend when he meets Claire in the school ground doesn’t help him with the feeling that nothing is as it should be. Even when Claire agrees to show Oliver home at the end of the school day and then stay and play for a while thingsstill aren’t right. And they are about to get much worse. Somehow they find themselves a lot further away from home than either of them could ever have imagined! Here they were in a jungle, without supplies, a mobile phone or a map, and only Oliver’s crazy compass, which has a mind of its own, to guide them. How were they ever going to get out of this place and find their way home? Oh and did we mention that they were being followed?
Written by CRAIG CHRISTIE Directed by JAMES COLEY Designed by JACOB BATTISTA Lighting Design by NICK GLEN Produced by VTM PRODUCTIONS Partner NO MATES PRODUCTIONS
Join Claire and Oliver on an exciting musical safari created to engage the young and young at heart in a magical adventure. JUNGLE BUNGLE explores the theme of fear of the unknown while celebrating friendship, individuality and imagination.
“A toe-tapping delight… The perfect theatre introduction for adventurous little ones!” Comedian Sammy J
SINGING SWALLOWS
2020 at 20
Apr 15 - 25
SINGING SWALLOWS BY ROMI KUPFER
“A storyteller can attempt to tell the human tale, can remind us that the swallows still sing around the smokestacks.” - Jane Yolen. SINGING SWALLOWS premieres at Theatre Works during Yom Hashoah / Holocaust Remembrance Day 2020. A beautiful and symbolic representation of a storytelling experience that cannot be replicated. An early start to understanding the Holocaust, connecting to young peoples lives through voice recording and visual storytelling. Ages 9+
Produced and Created by ROMI KUPFER Performed by ROMI KUPFER FLORA FELDMAN Sound Design JUSTIN GARDAM Lighting Design JOHN COLLOPY Original Performer and Education Consultant TAMMY COHEN Voiced by ELLIE GOLDENBERG NOAH GOLDENBERG JASMINE FILER ZAC MAIDENBERG RAYMOND KUPFER Photo by PIA JOHNSON
“a layered and nuanced performance work... an original and stunning performance piece.” Audience Member | Development Season
PHANTASMAGORIA
2020 at 20
May 6 - 16
PHANTASMAGORIA BY Bernadette Trench-Thiedeman
What do you do when you find out your (now dead) father tried to kill your mother? a) Forgive him, move on and love him despite the fact? b) Erase him completely from your memory? or c) Employ a spirit medium and have a few words with him. Briony chose option c) and this play is the result. PHANTASMAGORIA plunges beneath a seemingly everyday domestic space to reveal family secrets, hauntings and complex emotional landscapes. Dynamic performance, absurdist comedy, puppetry and evocative animation give physical life to the liminal realm of ghosts and the unseen.
Written by BERNADETTE TRENCHTHIEDEMAN Performers / Devisors DAN GORONZSY BERNADETTE TRENCHTHIEDEMAN Creative Team MILLY COOPER KAREN HETHEY CAITLIN OVERTON EMILIE COLLYER Sound Designer & Composer CLAIRE DEAK
“beautiful storytelling... with puppets, projections and an original score that illustrates the continual contrast between fantasy and harsh reality.” Theatre Press on ‘The Divination Agency’
MARA
KORPER
2020 at 20
May 20 - 31
Mara KORPER BY Jayde Kirchert Presented BY CITIZEN THEATRE
An exciting, feminist sci-fi theatrical experience, Mara KORPER is set in a futuristic world where gender is obsolete and the flesh must remain whole. This brilliant and terrifying new theatrical work explores themes of extremism, gender and body image in a dystopian future, picking up where Orwell and Huxley left off. Fusing experimental sound and technology with absurdist expressionism, Mara KORPER is on the cutting edge of experimental feminist theatre.
Written & Directed by JAYDE KIRCHERT Presented by CITIZEN THEATRE Composer ANTHONY LYONS Associate Music Director IMOGEN CYGLER Designer STU BROWN Costume Designer AISLINN NAUGHTON Producer ASHLEIGH MORRIS Producing Assistant STEPH CLARE-COVER Cast Includes FREYA PRAGT JACK WUNSCH JORDAN BARR KAYLA HAMILL Photo By STU BROWN
Supported by the City of Port Phillip Cultural Development Fund
“moving
and nuanced...featuring elegant design emotionally charged performances.” The Age on ‘When The Light Leaves’
and
WE’RE probably really really happy right 2020 now at 20
Jun 3 - 13
We’re probably really really happy right now By ELLEN GRIMSHAW Presented by PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT A wild theatrical ride through gender politics, power dynamics, tall poppy syndrome and individual aspirations, using pop culture tropes, romantic stereo-types, contemporary dance and experimental music, through a series of neo-Commedia inspired vignettes, language play, freewheeling dialogue, absurdity, role reversal, and gender-bending queerness! The conundrum: fear and restriction versus instinct and freedom co-existing from an individual, gendered, and cultural perspective. The play puts gender, capitalism, racism, sexism and social and economic exploitation under a searing satirical lens. Surreal, irrational, non-linear, dynamic, volatile, high octane - the play rejects tired narrative structure, conformity, social stereotypes and conventional, archaic gender-binary characters and psychologically driven action. An incendiary reaction to normality, social conformity, and really boring gendered modes of behaviour.
Written by ELLEN GRIMSHAW Directed by SARAH VICKERY Dramaturg & Sound Designer JUSTIN GARDAM Set & Costume Design BETHANY J FELLOWS Produced by PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT (PSA) GAVIN ROACH ELLEN GRIMSHAW Photo by COLIN MONEYMAKER Artwork by SARAH VICKERY
““Ellen has a willingness to try anything at script level and it’s really thrilling” Keith Gow on ‘Just Us Girls - What’s a Girl?’ “Absurdist stream-of-consciousness mix of #MeToo meets Dada by way of cul-tural theory, poetry and vaudeville.” Stage Whispers on on ‘Just Us Girls - What’s a Girl?’
2020 at 20
JUN 17 - 20
SIGNATURE BY FOG THEATRE
A multidimensional mandala made up of mash-ups, mojos and meditations. Gliding hands power up Brush down arms out to wings Spin turn disco finger pointing round Fist pumps the air stomp Presented by Fog Theatre, in collaboration with Kate Geck, MiliZZAA & David Maney, SIGNATURE combines, rearranges & blends the visual, musical & movement sources of each artist, aiming to amplify & challenge our perceptions of creation & authorship, collaboration & agency The body is relaxed with lots of love and with friends People love you very much Breathe in Breathe out Fog Theatre is a performance based arts program for adults with disability supported by the City of Port Phillip. “We’re not only watching the performers create their own expression, we’re watching it happen in real time, right before us. At times the enactments of decisions were breathtaking, and induced audible gasps from the audience.” The Age on ‘Cumulus Nimbus
Directed by NILGUN GUVEN Performers CLEM BAADE MICHAEL BUXTON IAN CAPLAN TIM D’ROZARIO JOHN ESLICK LINCOLN HOLT DEBBIE LISSEK JORDAN LOW MATTIE MICHAEL MARK POLONSKY DANNY QUINLIVAN RUTH RUSCHINEK MELISSA SLAVIERO BRINLEY STEPHENS WILLIAM BAILEY ELEANOR VOGDANIS Sound Design DAVID MANEY Multimedia Mandala Artwork FOG THEATRE Mandala Animations KATE GECK Crystal Projections MILICA STANOJLOVIC Mandala Projections RACHEL EDWARD Guided Meditation Video KATE GECK FOG THEATRE Photo by SARAH WALKER
SUMMER of the
seventeeth
DOLL
2020 at 20
JUN 24 - 27
Summer of the seventeenth doll By RAY LAWLER PRESENTED BY HIT PRODUCTIONS
From the canefields to the city, an iconic Australian story of passion, bittersweet romance and the yearning for lost youth. A beautifully observed, humorous and poignant play, Ray Lawler’s much loved tale of two Queensland cane cutters who for 16 years have worked up north in the brutal sugar cane fields and travelled back to Melbourne to meet up for five months of partying and romance with their barmaid girlfriends. But this seventeenth summer will prove challenging for them all.
Written by RAY LAWLER Directed by DENNY LAWRENCE Produced by CHRISTINE HARRIS HIT PRODUCTIONS Featured on VCE Theatre Studies Unit 3 Playlist
A triumph at its 1955 Melbourne premiere, and highly successful West End season, this 2020 production of the Australian classic Summer of the Seventeenth Doll directed by award winning Denny Lawrence celebrates the 65th Anniversary of this iconic play.
“A story of love, heartache, hope and loss, Summer of the Seventeenth Doll remains one of the theatrical canon’s most moving explorations of the fading of youth and dreams.” Arts Review “More than sixty years after its debut, Lawler’s play still holds a mirror that REFLECTS Australian society” OutInPerth
OUT
THERE
2020 at 20
jun 30 - jul 4
OUT THERE
by Sean & Hollie Bryan presented by Brymore Productions When a routine space mission goes wrong, and our ship finds itself hurtling towards an undiscovered planet, it’s going to take the skills of everyone at ground control to get everything back on track! Join the crew as we explore the outer limits of your imagination and discover what’s really ‘Out There’ in an interactive, intergalactic adventure, where no two performances are ever the same.
Created and Performed by SEAN BRYAN HOLLIE BRYAN Puppetry Design ALEX MILLEDGE Puppetry Consultant & Puppeteer JARROD FAIRCLOUGH Space Consultant MARC DOMÈNECH VADILLO
The immersive fun of ‘Animal Crossing’ meets the loveable absurdity of ‘The Muppet Show’ in this black light space odyssey that’s bound to be a blast for earthlings of all ages! Ideal for ages 4+
“Wonderfully creative minds.” Lancashire Evening Post
“Innovative, imaginative and importantly fun.” Edinburgh Festivals For Kids
caligula 2020 at 20
JUL 12 - 23
caligula
BY Albert Camus PRESENTED BY BURNING HOUSE The mad Emperor Caligula rules over Rome. People are murdered, robbed and hanged for treason. His horse is the leader of the government. And he’s dressing up as the goddess of Love and singing about it. The future is uncertain, reality itself is up for grabs and there are ears everywhere. Burning House brings Ancient Rome to life in a cross between ‘American Psycho’ and ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ in this massive play. Thirteen actors bring this anarchic, volatile world to life in Melbourne’s professional premiere, by a company that has been making a name for delivering high octane, edgy, intense adaptions of classic plays.
Written by ALBERT CAMUS Directed / Produced by ROBERT JOHNSON Co-Producer JESSICA DOUTCH Performed by PAUL ARMSTRONG JAKE MATRICARDI
It’s an epic, modern showdown between stoicism and nihilism in a play bursting with poetry, violence, sadness and love. There will be blood. And glitter.
“Raw, intense, dark and very edgy.” ArtsHub on ‘Ajax’ “Burning House’s work is bone-chilling, utterly intense.” Chuck Moore Reviews About
ABUNDANC
ABUNDANCE ABUNDANCE ABUNDANCE ABUNDANCE
BUNDANCE
ABUNDANCE ABUNDANCE
CE
JUL 24
ABUNDANCE A THEATRE WORKS FUNDRAISER
The future doesn’t belong to the faint hearted. It belongs to the brave. Surrender to night-time delights, experience the unexpected.
as
you
Join us for an evening showcasing an eclectic array of performances curated to surprise and enchant, accompanied by wine, wonder and delicious dining.
JULY 24 | 7:00PM - LATE Tickets | $150 Tickets can be bought individually or as a Table of 10 Catering Included in Ticket Price Drinks at Bar Prices
The Abundance Gala celebrates imagination and raises vital funds for our future. Abundance will be held at home in the Theatre Works Parish Hall at 14 Acland Street, St Kilda.
Photo: Claire Hooper Photo by: Andrew Bott
when the
FALLING
RAIN stops
2020 at 20
Jul 29 - Aug 16
WHEN THE RAIN STOPS FALLING By Andrew bovell Presented by iron lung theatre
Alice Springs. 2039. A fish falls from the sky - it still smells of the sea. It’s been raining for days, the apocalypse looms ever closer and Gabriel York knows something is wrong. WHEN THE RAIN STOPS FALLING unfolds like a puzzle to be solved. Told through the interconnected stories of two families over four generations; between a prediction in London 1959 and its outcome in Australia eighty years later. This intricate, multi-layered story explores betrayal, abandonment, destruction, forgiveness and love. Where damage to the planet serves as a metaphor for the damage inflicted from generation to generation.
Written by ANDREW BOVELL Directed by BRIONY DUNN Performed by FRANCIS GREENSLADE ESTHER VAN DOORNUM NICHOLAS DENTON Set & Costumes KRIS BIRD Lighting Design CLARE SPRINGETT Production Manager JULIA LANDBERG
Writer Andrew Bovell (Lantana) has created an epic and powerful piece of magic realism, which ask the question: do we have the capacity to address the damage of the past in the future? “A gloriously written and gripping script that is dramatically unpredictable and yet piercingly beautiful…” ArtsHub “...A stunning, gut-wrenching piece of theatre. once seen it will never be forgotten...” Adelaide Theatre Guide
FARM ANIMAL FARM ANIMAL FARM ANIMAL FARM
2020 at 20
oct 21 - 31
animal farm
BY THE BLOOMSHED AFTER GEORGE ORWELL
Why do we to suffer? There is only one answer: MAN. We are being robbed of everything.
Created by THE BLOOMSHED
One of the most brutal stories ever told. Written by one of the most incisive and subversive writers of the twentieth century. Adapted by The Bloomshed, George Orwell’s fierce critique of power is funnelled through a contemporary context that sees political oppression, extremism, misinformation and food production erupt into an all-out assault on our contemporary political landscape. ANIMAL FARM is a high-octane mess of punkprotest, political allegory and epic theatre with a rhythm beaten out on abandoned grain silos. If you want to make an omelette, you’ve got to crack some eggs
“The Bloomshed have established themselves FIrmly as experts in reanimating older texts, bastardising classic texts to create cutting, political contemporary theatre.” Theatre People “Political
theatre
dredged from capitalism.” The Age
the
crisis
of
late
EXTRA EVENTS
Feb 9
SOUNDS OF ST KILDA ST KILDA FESTIVAL BATTLE OF THE BANDS Theatre Works is calling out for demo submissions from bands, solo artists and acoustic performers for SOUNDS OF ST KILDA, a battle of the bands concert on Sunday February 9th, 2020. During St Kilda Festival, we are transforming our theatre into a full-blown concert hall, with prizes and glory for the best music act up for grabs! Submit your tracks online by Monday January 6th to be in the running! SOUNDS OF ST KILDA is a FREE event.
Apply now at theatreworks.org.au SUN FEB 9TH FEB FREE ENTRY
Mar 15
GAY STUFF MARKET SOUTHSIDE SPECIAL Gay Stuff Market is heading Southside to St Kilda’s Theatre Works, showcasing the finest creators, artisans and style makers from the queer community and its allies. This fun and community spirited event, offers everything from Fashion, Art, Plants, Homewares, Accessories, Pleasure Products, Vintage and Recycled Pieces, Zines More. Gay Stuff embraces diversity and in doing so attracts a wide variety of people, products and services. Whether vendors are just starting their new creative venture or are more established artisans and creators, Gay Stuff strives to make sure it caters to everyone that wants a space to showcase their work. So if you’re looking for something special with a point of difference. Make sure you come get some Gay Stuff.
More info at theatreworks.org.au Sunday 15th March 1 pm - 5 pm FREE ENTRY
ARTISTSA RESIDENT
STAGE MOM - RESIDENT COMPANY
After a nation-wide callout for independant theatre companies and artist collectives in 2019, we are extremely excited to welcome STAGE MOM back to Theatre Works as our 2020 company in residence. Run by Hannah Fallowfield and Alberto Di Troia, STAGE MOM is a Melbourne-based independent collective that will receive year-long development support on a new work to be considered for programming in future Theatre Works Seasons. Support will include programmed play readings, rehearsal space, a full week in the theatre, company profile development and a four hour strategic planning session lead by a professional facilitator. STAGE MOM returns to Theatre Works after their premiere season of ‘Truly Madly Britney’ during Midsumma Festival 2019, and following their award-winning Melbourne Fringe Season of ‘I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Cooking For’.
SARTISTS ASSOCIATE
ASSOCIATE ARTIST PROGRAM
In 2020, Theatre Works continues its groundbreaking Associate Artist Program dedicated to emerging artists. The program presents emerging artists from various disciplines with the opportunity to be seconded to a Theatre Works 2020 production in line with their field. Artists have the opportunity to engage in the artistic process and extend their professional networks. Associate Artists also receive access to Theatre Works’ Creative Producer and Artistic Advisory Panel to discuss their own work for potential presentation in 2021.
AMY NUNN
ROXANA PAUN TRIFAN
KITAN PETKOVSKI
LIAM MAGUIRE
KORALY DIMITRIADIS
KATE SPEAKMAN
STEPHANIE GHAJAR
OLIVIA STAAF
SHE WRITES Throughout 2020, Theatre Works is supporting emerging or mid-career female-identifying playwrights in a new writer development program, SHE WRITES. Our five succesful applicants will have access to a hot desk at Theatre Works, programmed play readings and professional feedback throughout development, with the possibility of realising their work on the stage in future Theatre Works St.Kilda programming.
JULES ALLEN
INDIA MURPHY
VANESSA O’NEILL
VIVIAN NGUYEN
MAJA AMANITA
DONATE SUPPORT US ON OUR BIRTHDAY
40 YEARS OF THEATRE WORKS
It’s been 40 years since a small group of artists got together and formed what has become a creative hotbed for independent Australian theatre, presenting performances that inspire, inform, challenge, entertain and provoke. By exploring and encouraging unique perspectives and creative approaches, our artists have been contributing to the important, ongoing conversations that shape our society since 1980. 2020 is not only a celebration of the past 40 years; it hails our determination to continue to be political, aspirational, inclusive and vocal as we look to the future. We are untamed, the future is here now, in our theatre and on our stage. Theatre Works will remain passionately committed to enabling artists to achieve their creative ambitions; bridging the gap in the industry between emerging and mainstream platforms. But it takes so much more that a great idea to make extraordinary theatre. Your support, no matter the size, can make a huge difference to what we do and plays a critical role in our ability to thrive. By donating to Theatre Works, you are investing in innovation and uncompromised artistic exploration. Please join us in supporting the future of Australian Theatre. All donations over $2 are tax deductible. To join the Vangaurd Program or to make a donation enquiry, call our Development Manager on (03) 9534 5879 or email development@theatreworks.org.au
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archive image circa 1988 | 14 Acland Street
DONATE VANGUARD
Members of the Vanguard Program are courageous, forward thinking people with a passion for new work and creative risk taking. This dynamic group underpins the activity of Theatre Works and are an intrinsic part of the Theatre Works community. Their regular support allows us to sustainably provide a platform for hidden voices and silent stories from within our contemporary community, supporting artists that would not normally be seen on our stages. With an annual contribution of $100 or more, you will join a growing community of influential and adventurous supporters, championing bold programming and opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to access the arts. Vanguard Members enjoy a personal relationship with Theatre Works and intimate access to our creative development through exclusive events and regular communication. Theatre Works has ambitious plans for the future. We welcome your support.
TEAM
THEATRE WORKS STAFF & BOARD
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Lauren O’Dwyer (Acting Chair), Annie Bourke, Sharon Lacy, Richard Phillips, Ness Harwood Dianne Toulson - General Manager Adam Gardner - Box Office/Marketing/Graphic Design Jacinta Anderson & John Collopy - Venue Managers Rachel Bostock - FOH Manager Kirsty Hillhouse - Development Manager Anne Henderson - Finance Administrator
FOH TEAM Erin Pattison Elizabeth Millington Ben Nichols Jordan Stonier-Watson Natalie Gardner
VANGUARD DONORS AMBASSADORS ($5000+) Michael Nossal & Jo Porter Ros Willett CHAMPIONS ($2500 - $4999) Richard Phillips Tom Buchan Dianne Toulson GUARDIANS ($1000 - $2499) Andrew Hooper Christopher Reed Greg Day Kate Lesser Leanne Webb Meg Upton Michael Anthony Lee Nancy Black Peter McLennan Rosemary Walls Rosemary Forbes & Ian Hocking Sharon Lacy Tanya Gerstle Lorraine Chisholm Richard Keddie Graeme Lewsey ADVOCATES ($500 - $999) Alison Richards Annie Bourke
Gerard Mullaly James Cuming Janine McDonald Julie and Michael Landvogt Julie Kantor Loraine Little Ness Harwood Rhyll Dorrington Wendy Lasica Mike Lawrence Danila Durante Margaret Pagone Alex Lasry Natasha Norton Jenny Ryssenbeek Michael Anthony SUPPORTERS ($100 - $499) Ally Deacon Carrie Kennedy & Ben Moreison Chris Mier Christopher Chaundy Fiona Sweet Geoffrey Court Hannie Rayson Karen Cosson Kaylene O’Neill Kirsty Hillhouse Leharna Black Louise McCrossin Lynda Kelly Lucinda Burgess
Megan Zerafa Michael Ruffles Nicole Beyer Peter Watson Petrina Dorrington Roslyn Varley Anonymous Turi Hollis Vivienne Halat Fiona Pattern Rinski Ginsberg Carolene Gwynn Elizabeth Jones Jason Graig Klara McMurray Merryn Anstee Heather Bolton Adam Krongold Geoffrey Court Roslyn Varley Anne Donegan Ray Liggett Dr Anne Marshall & Gordon Beattie Colin Clarke Jeremy Press Anne Donegan
THANKS SPONSORS
A SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR INCREDIBLE PARTNERS AND SPONSORS.
We would never be able to do what we do without your support.
GOVERNMENT SPONSORS
CORPORATE SPONSOR
BEER PARTNER
TICKETING PARTNER
SOUND/AV PARTNER
WINE PARTNER
distribution PARTNER
CATERING PARTNER
accomodation PARTNER
DIGITAL MARKETING PARTNER
archive image 1980 | THEATRE WORKS FOUNDING MEMBERS (l to r) Susie Fraser, Peter Finlay, Hannie Rayson, Caz Howard and Peter Sommerfeld
theatre works SINCE 1980 14 Acland Street St Kilda VIC 3182 Australia [PO Box 1205 St Kilda South 3182] Bookings: (03) 9534 3388 Office: (03) 9534 4879
theatreworks.org.au