David Williamson's ARIA to premiere at Ensemble Theatre this January

A darkly funny exploration of the intricate dynamics and rivalry inherent within every family, Ensemble Theatre presents the world premiere of Aria by David Williamson, this January.

A symphony of discord unfolds at Monique’s annual family gathering, celebrating her three beloved sons’ birthdays. While Monique’s adoration for her boys knows no bounds, disdain for their wives is palpable.

Festivities crescendo and Monique takes the spotlight with a performance of a renowned opera aria, a poignant reminder of the dreams she sacrificed to raise her brood. In her mind, she was destined for the illustrious stages of La Scala, the Met and Covent Garden.

But beneath the facade of familial harmony, dissonance brews. Have the long-suffering wives reached their boiling point? David Williamson’s ARIA is a darkly comedic exploration of the intricate dynamics and rivalry inherent within every family.

“I think ARIA is one of the pinnacles in David’s incomparable and prolific career,” says director Janine Watson. “It has all the humour and laughter so beloved of his plays while fearlessly staring privilege and hypocrisy directly in the eye.

“In ARIA he centres four complex intelligent female roles at the heart of the story and has a wonderful time positioning them opposite deeply flawed male characters who have enjoyed immense economic advantage.”

Director: Janine Watson | Featuring: Tamara Lee Bailey, Rowan Davie, Danielle King, Tracy Mann, Suzannah McDonald, Sam O’Sullivan, Jack Starkey-Gill | Assistant Director: Anna Houston | Set & Costume Designer: Rose Montgomery | Lighting Designer: Matt Cox | Composer & Sound Designer: David Bergman | Operatic Vocal Coach: Donna Balson | Intimacy Coordinator: Chloe Dallimore | Stage Manager: Lauren Tulloch | Assistant Stage Manager: Bella Wellstead | Costume Supervisor: Renata Beslik