In the running history of UMMTA shows, The Hatpin stands alone, quite unique for being both Australian and somewhat contemporary (written in 2008, with revisions as recent as 2011). It is distinctive for its predominantly female lead-cast, and its deliberate focus on the experiences of these women. Written by James Millar and Peter Rutherford, The Hatpin follows the story of Amber Murray, played by Eleanor Davey. Set … Continue reading UMMTA Gets Political
The Med Review just wrapped up their 2016 production, Captain Australia: Emu War, a two and a half hour show of sketch comedy and music, written and performed by the cast. The introductory skit was lacklustre, with all the actors front of stage, deliberating on how to diversify the cast, with a series of jokes that just didn’t seem to land. Ultimately the punch line was … Continue reading Cheeky Comedy
Aotu Theatre’s The Pillowman J: The ease with which McDonagh’s vague police state in The Pillowman was re-contextualised into the setting of communist China was pretty startling, and probably one of the strongest choices made in Aotu Theatre’s production. A legitimate, contextually appropriate police state? Check. A history of police brutality, false accusations, and silencing of artistic expression? Check. Effective, culturally meaningful and politically … Continue reading McDonagh Made New
In the lead up to the Melbourne University Shakespeare Company’s production of Antony & Cleopatra, Anthony Kuiper sat down with director Liam Bellman-Sharpe to discuss his adaptation of the play. Why Antony & Cleopatra? For a few reasons. It is a lesser known work but a well-known story. Everyone knows these characters and has associations with these characters. I think challenging people’s conceptions of what … Continue reading Public figures in private: MUSC’s Antony & Cleopatra
The Dialog 