Continuing their commitment to presenting work by some of Australia’s most innovative theatre makers, New Theatre is once again partnering with the Sydney Fringe to present a program of exciting and varied works at this year’s festival.
Featuring a season of eight productions, ranging from world premieres of new Australia writing to French theatre, from music theatre and cabaret to children’s entertainment, and, for the first time, New Theatre is also acting as lead producer for three of the shows. Arts Review takes a look at what’s on offer.
Aunt Agony
21 & 22 September
Christine’s on the run from a failed relationship, seeking refuge in the ‘burbs while she gets her life back on track. There’s just one slight hitch: Aunty Lynette. New Theatre presents the world premiere of a twisted dark comedy from young Sydney writer Ritchie Black about growing older (disgracefully) and living with the monsters we call ‘family’. Directed by Michael Campbell. Produced by New Theatre.
Amanda
17, 20 & 21 September
Sydney writer Mark Langham’s intriguing play looks at an old question in a new way. Are we born with a certain character or do circumstances form us? Amanda returns for a second season after premiering at the Tap Gallery early this year. Directed by Sahn Millington. Produced by New Theatre.
The Sheds
17, 18, 20 & 21 September
If you thought coming out of the closet was hard, try coming out in the locker room. What happens when an AFL star player reveals he’s gay? Fresh from playing sold out shows at the Melbourne and Adelaide Fringe Festivals, The Sheds is a fly-on-the-wall adventure into an AFL locker room where nothing is hidden. Warning: strong language and nudity. Written and Directed by James Cunningham. Produced by The Sheds Theatre Company.
The Matilda Waltz
19, 25 & 27 September
This year marks the 150th anniversary of Banjo Paterson’s birth. Sydney writer Deborah Mulhall takes the man and his work as motifs to form the background for an epic play that spans one hundred years and follows five generations of Australian women, exploring our nation’s identity at home and abroad. New Theatre is proud to be presenting this world premiere production. Directed by Sam Thomas. Produced by New Theatre.
Je T’Aime! Moi Non Plus …
19 & 20 September
When loves enters, sometimes it can be brutal, sometimes seductive, sometimes a tease and sometimes tender. And when love exits, it can go from laughter to tears. Through seven intimate scenes, we are given a unique glimpse into what it means to be a couple: the good, the bad and the ugly. Produced by Sydney French Theatre.
The Great Big Bag of Being
21 & 22 September
Dot is a small clown with a big question: “Who am I?” Come on a magical physical theatre adventure full of music, surprise and laughter, to explore gender, playground roles and identity through a child’s eyes. Suitable for children aged 3+ and their adults, with babes-in-arms warmly welcomed. Devised and Performed by Bronwyn Davies Glover. Produced by Dot & Dribble Productions.
Jurassic! That is One Big Pile of Musical
22, 23, 24, 26 & 27 September
Having its Sydney premiere after a sold-out production in Wollongong, this fresh and inventive new Australian musical brings together everything you loved about the movie – plus tap-dancing Velociraptors! By Leigh Scott and Evan Kerr. Directed by Leigh Scott. Produced by Lazy Susan.
Desperately Young at Heart
23, 24, 25, 26 & 27 September
Following its award-winning season at this year’s Perth Fringe World, operatic baritone Robert Hofmann brings his irreverent one-man show to Sydney, packed with a spectacular array of hilarious characters, male and female, all young at heart, and all desperate. If you’ve ever suffered lousy church music, wished you’d had more fun in your twenties, hit the big 4-0 (or might do one day)… then this is the show for you! Directed by Stuart Maunder. Produced by Robert Hofmann.
For more information, visit: www.newtheatre.org.au or www.sydneyfringe.com for details.
Image: Aunt Agony