Edward Albee’s scorching classic tale of reality and illusion, Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? will arrive at Holden Street Theatres this August in a showcase of some of South Australia’s finest talent under the direction of Peter Goers.
Widely regarded as one of the best plays in English literature Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? examines the complexities of the marriage of middle-aged couple Martha and George.
Late one evening after a university faculty party, they receive unwitting younger couple Nick and Honey as guests and draw them into their bitter and frustrated relationship.
A headline attraction in Holden Street Theatres 2025 season, the production features an award-winning local cast starring Martha Lott (Martha), Brant Eustice (George), Jessica Corrie (Honey) and Chris Asimos (Nick).
The play marks the continuation of a highly successful partnership between Peter Goers and Holden Street Theatres building on the acclaim of previous productions such as Looped, Night Mother, Cowardy Cowardy Custard and A Cheery Soul.
According to Peter Goers, Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? at Holden Street Theatres is compulsory viewing. “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? is a great play and it’s a thrill to work with this exceptional cast. I love this play and Martha Lott and I have discussed doing it many times,” he said.
“Here we are rehearsing this canonical, devasting, dark and funny play with this extraordinary cast. We certainly all know we are alive. Come see…”, said Mr Goers.
For Martha Lott the opportunity to return to the Holden Street stage to play an iconic role alongside the who’s who of South Australian theatre is an exciting prospect. “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? is an absolute masterpiece that has been a great source of inspiration personally and creatively,” she said.
“The opportunity to bring ‘Martha’ to life alongside this cast and team is an honour. This play continues to reach new heights and audiences and I cannot wait to return to the Holden Street stage for this special season.”
First staged in October 1962 and famously adored by the film adaptation released in 1966, written by Ernest Lehman, directed by Mike Nichols, and starring Richard Burton, Elizabeth Taylor, George Segal and Sandy Dennis.
Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? won both the 1963 Tony Award for Best Play and the 1962-1963 New York Drama Critics’ Circle Award for Best Play.
Director: Peter Goers | Featuring: Chris Asimos, Jessica Corrie, Brant Eustice, Martha Lott | Assistant Director & Co-Stage Manager: Brian Wellington | Lighting Designer: Martin Smith | Co-Stage Manager: Jonathan Holds
Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?
The Studio – Holden Street Theatres, 32 – 34 Holden Street, Hindmarsh (Adelaide)
Season: 5 – 16 August 2025
Information and Bookings: www.holdenstreettheatres.com
Image: Holden Street Theatres presents Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (supplied)