A poignant and disarmingly humorous new stage adaptation by celebrated Australian writer Benjamin Law, Melbourne Theatre Company presents the world premiere of Dying: A Memoir in the Fairfax Studio – Arts Centre Melbourne from 25 October 2025.
This moving, one-person show about life, death and the space in between is based on Cory Taylor’s acclaimed 2016 memoir, written after she was diagnosed with advanced melanoma and named by then US President Barack Obama as one of his top ten books of the year.
Directed by screenwriter, playwright and theatre maker Jean Tong (Heartbreak High, Flat Earthers: The Musical) in their directorial debut for Melbourne Theatre Company, where they are also an Associate Artist, Dying: A Memoir stars renowned television, film, and theatre actress Genevieve Morris stars as Cory Taylor.
“I have lived experience of cancer and treatment and remission and cancer again… so it’s empowering to be able to talk about Cory’s journey of diagnosis, prognosis, treatment and acceptance,” says Morris.
The creative team for Dying: A Memoir includes James Lew (Set & Costume Designer), Rachel Lee (Lighting Designer), Darius Kedros (Composer & Sound Designer) and 2024 Future Creatives participant Todd J. Bennett (Associate Composer & Sound Designer).
“This is a story full of courage, connection and wry humour and reminds us to live every minute of this fragile life fully. Benjamin’s adaptation is both tender and piercing, and we’re proud to bring it to the stage,” says Artistic Director and Co-CEO of Melbourne Theatre Company, Anne-Louise Sarks.
Dying: A Memoir invites you on a potent and playful journey to explore the essential things that are put into perspective as we all approach the finishing line. A compelling and intimate theatrical event not to be missed.
Dying: A Memoir
Fairfax Studio – Arts Centre Melbourne, 100 St Kilda Road, Melbourne
Season: 30 October – 29 November 2025 (previews: 25 – 29October)
Information and Bookings: www.mtc.com.au
Image: Genevieve Morris stars as Cory Taylor in Dying: A Memoir – courtesy of Melbourne Theatre Company