The award-winning, genre-busting theatre collective, Pony Cam, is bringing their signature irreverent social commentary to Malthouse next month in The Orchard, a brand-new adaptation of Anton Chekhov’s seminal classic, playing the Beckett Theatre this August.
Following their acclaimed original works Burnout Paradise (RISING) and Grand Theft Theatre (Melbourne Fringe Festival), Pony Cam co-creators and performers Claire Bird, Ava Campbell, William Strom, Dominic Weintraub and Hugo Williams have this year set their dramaturgical sights on the Russian master’s timeless tale of social change, loss, and the clash between old and new.
“Pony Cam is hot property in theatre right now, for good reason. They have an almost uncanny ability to tackle the important issues in our zeitgeist with equal parts sincerity and whimsy,” said Malthouse Executive Producer & CEO, Vivia Hickman.
“We are delighted to have the company back in the building, this time as part of our 2025 season, and can’t wait to see what poignant splendour they transpose into the world of Russia’s most famed playwright.”
This playful, post-modern interpretation of Chekhov’s final masterpiece will see the ‘frenetically uproarious’ (Time Out) theatremakers take on remnants of a redundant cherry orchard, a crumbling climate and a failing economy.
“We can’t wait to invite audiences into The Orchard. While we will be visiting a distant estate in Russia, our Orchard will be much closer to home. One that is torn between doomed inheritances and impossible expectations. There will be real indecision, real failure, real gambling, cheap champagne, and a dangerous proposition,” shared Pony Cam Collective.
Since their formation in 2019, Pony Cam have garnered a cult following with their unique style of theatremaking that is as thought-provoking as it is hilarious. Their practice is instinctive, physical, and highly spirited.
No two works are formally the same, but each is driven by a desire to reimagine their impact in the world, find joy in community, remain utterly silly and laugh in the face of tragedy.
Co-Creators & Performers: Claire Bird, Ava Campbell, William Strom, Dominic Weintraub, Hugo Williams | Set & Costume Designer: Sophie Woodward | Lighting Designer: Harrie Hogan | Producer: Dans Maree Sheehan
The Orchard
Beckett Theatre – Malthouse Theatre, Sturt Street, Southbank
Season: 7 – 16 August 2025 (previews: 5 – 6 August)
Information and Bookings: www.malthousetheatre.com.au
Image: Pony Cam presents The Orchard (supplied)