Crunch Time

Ensemble Theatre Crunch Time John Wood Guy EdmondsTackling pertinent social issues head-on in this tale of family and duty, Ensemble Theatre presents David Williamson’s incisive play about fierce sibling rivalry, Crunch Time, in a world premiere season from 14 February 2020.

“I always return to writing about families because they shape us and give rise to our most intense emotions, be they tears of joy or tears of rage,”  said Playwright David Williamson. “Crunch Time is about a family at crisis point, with no easy way out. It’s often blackly funny but hopefully doesn’t dodge life’s biggest and most pressing question – What’s it all about?

Steve is the typical Aussie bloke, self-assured, social and sports-mad. Recently retired from a high-flying career, he’s passed the family business over to his son Jimmy – a chip off the old block. But his eldest son Luke, an engineer with more of an interest in algebra than AFL, has never quite seen eye-to-eye with his dad and they haven’t spoken in eight years.

When Steve suddenly falls ill, time is running out to repair their broken relationship – and Luke and Jimmy will have to go to extreme lengths to fulfil their father’s final wishes.

“Ensemble Theatre has been home to most of David’s new comedies for more than a decade and I am delighted to be directing David’s last play with a wonderful cast including John Wood and Guy Edmonds,” said Mark Kilmurry, Artistic Director Ensemble Theatre.

“David has always used comedy to investigate the issues about human nature he wants to air. Crunch Time will have people laughing but there are also some very serious, contemporary issues which this play tackles.”

Crunch Time will be David Williamson’s final play before he retires after 50 years of writing some of Australia’s best satirical plays.

Director: Mark Kilmurry Featuring: Diane Craig, Megan Drury, Guy Edmonds, Matt Minto, Emma Palmer, John Wood Assistant Director: Janine Watson Set and Costume Designer: Lauren Peters Lighting Designer: Nicholas Higgins Sound Realiser: Anthony Lorenz Stage Managers: Brooke Kiss, Stephanie Lindwall Costume Supervisor: Renata Beslik


Crunch Time
Ensemble Theatre, 78 McDougall Street, Kirribilli (Sydney)
Season: 19 February – 9 April 2020 (previews: 14 – 18 February)
Information and Bookings: www.ensemble.com.au

Image: John Wood and Guy Edmonds star in Crunch Time (supplied)