A startling and provocative new work that explores humanity’s desire to dictate how we’re perceived by others, Red Stitch presents Keziah Warner’s Control in a world premiere season from 1 October 2019.
A heavily pregnant ex-ballerina, a child detective, a bitter puppeteer and a feminist pop princess hurtle towards Mars. The world is watching. Isn’t it? On the eve of a revolution, Nicki and Caroline attempt to gain control over their lives as their A.I. superior, Alex, dances the night away.
And on New Earth, Esta & Isabelle forge new hope through a new kind of relationship. Told across several decades, over three acts, in three completely separate times, and in locations from Melbourne to Mars, Control delves deep into our relationship with technology: its moral ambiguities, its dependencies, and its potential.
This exciting drama by Keziah Warner was developed through Red Stitch’s unique INK playwriting program. Keziah’s writing credits include: LuNa (Victorian College of the Arts, 2019), Help Yourself (Melbourne Theatre Company’s Cybec Electric, 2019) and Her Father’s Daughter (Hotel Now, 2018).
INK plays a vital role in the development of new Australian plays, providing essential resources to nurture works to their fullest potential. The INK program has been responsible for developing works such as Jurassica by Dan Giovanonni, The Honey Bees by Caleb Lewis, desert, 6:29pm by Morgan Rose and Lamb by Jane Bodie.
This science fiction epic will be directed by Julian Meyrick (Angela’s Kitchen, Who’s Afraid of the Working Class? The Realistic Joneses, Lamb) and will feature Red Stitch ensemble members Christina O’Neill, Dushan Philips, and Samuel Rowe, and guest actor Naomi Rukavina.
Director: Julian Meyrick Featuring: Christina O’Neill, Dushan Philips, Samuel Rowe, Naomi Rukavina Dramaturg: Tom Healey Set & Costume Design: Emily Collett Lighting Design: Lisa Mibus Sound and AV Design: Justin Gardam Assistant Director: Shaun Wykes Stage Manager: Alysha Watt Assistant Stage Manager: Maxine Palmerson
Control
Red Stitch Actors’ Theatre, Rear 2 Chapel Street, St Kilda
Season: 10 October – 3 November 2019 (previews: 1 – 8 October)
Information and Bookings: www.redstitch.net
Image: Samuel Rowe, Christina O’Neill, Dushan Philips and Naomi Rukavina – courtesy of Red Stitch