A reading of Reginald Rose’s classic play, 12 Angry Men – but read by Women, will take place at The Alex Theatre, St. Kilda for two special performances on 27 & 28 November 2015.
Following the closing arguments in a murder trial, the 12 members of the jury must deliberate, with a guilty verdict meaning death for the accused, an inner-city teen. As the dozen men try to reach a unanimous decision while sequestered in a room, one juror casts considerable doubt on elements of the case. Personal issues soon rise to the surface, and conflict threatens to derail the delicate process that will decide one boy’s fate.
Featuring 12 of our most recognizable and talented female actors including Noeline Brown, Pia Miranda, Anne Charleston, Jane Allsop, Robyn Arthur, Anna Burgess, Fiona Harris, Diana Glenn and more… they will volunteer their time to raise money for the White Ribbon Foundation and Rachael Moore – who was recently seen on 60 minutes.
“We want to invite the wonderful men of Melbourne to come along and take the oath,” says producer, Kate Whitbread. “We are so privileged to have these fine performers donate their time for this cause but White Ribbon is about men finding their voice. We really want to see them in the theatre showing their support for the foundation and for Rachael Moore.”
Helen Ellis praises and acknowledges the fine work the White Ribbon Foundation have done along with other significant groups and hopes their small contribution will help. “The cast donating their time is a shining example of how important this cause is. Everyday an Australian woman is beaten, abused and or murdered by a spouse, partner, family member, or stranger as a sign of control. Whether it is sexually, verbally, physically is irrelevant, it has to stop!” says Ellis.
In 2015 Domestic Violence is more prevalent than ever before. Rachael Moore (recently seen on 60 minutes) has suffered more than any person deserves to suffer and White Ribbon is a noble cause created to help men become more aware and speak out about the unacceptability of domestic violence.
Kate Whitbread (film maker) and Helen Ellis, along with Aleksandar Vass from The Alex Theatre felt compelled to try and assist in some small way to reducing the count by raising awareness and funds. The result is a fundraiser for White Ribbon and also for Rachael Moore (whose story you may have seen – her young sons were forced to tackle their own father to save their mother’s life after she had been shot).
White Ribbon is Australia’s only national, male led Campaign to end men’s violence against women. The campaign works through primary prevention initiatives involving awareness raising and education, and programs with youth, schools, workplaces and across the broader community.
Globally, White Ribbon is the world’s largest male-led movement to end men’s violence against women. Originating in Canada in 1991, White Ribbon is now active in more than 60 countries. White Ribbon began in Australia in 2003 as part of UNIFEM (now UN Women), formally becoming a Foundation in 2007.
12 Angry Men – a play reading by women
The Alex Theatre, 135 Fitzroy Street, St. Kilda
Performances: 27 & 28 November 2015 – 7.30pm
Bookings: www.ticketek.com.au
For more information, visit: www.alextheatrestk.com for details.
Image: 12 Angry Men (supplied)