Dubious Intent

A poignant piece about the breaking of a once thought lifelong friendship, Lonely Heart Theatre Company presents Dubious Intent by Callum O’Mara at Club Voltaire, as part of the 2023 Melbourne Fringe Festival, from 19 – 22 October.

Two twenty-year-olds book a study room consistently every week and work with the intention of becoming successful writers. However, one man’s dream can be another’s nightmare, and a once functional relationship, held together by a shared promise, ceases to be sustainable.

It’s saying goodbye though, that proves to be the hardest struggle of all, especially when contention seems to be the most favourable way of communicating.

Written and Directed by Callum O’Mara, Dubious Intent originated from personal experience and a desire to understand why sometimes friendships, not just romantic relationships, can end so abruptly.

Never intending it to be longer than two pages, Callum felt he only scratched the surface starting out, and after morally questioning himself, with questions such as – “is it morally right to leave a friend if the spark isn’t there anymore?” – felt compelled to stretch it out to a one act play.

Having studied at WAAPA and the Howard Fine studio, Callum mainly considers himself an actor, but the lack of an opportunity an actor gets, has caused him to use his imagination in different ways and has written numerous projects over the years mainly for film.

Dubious Intent is the company’s first original piece. Having formed early in the year, this new and emerging company aims to shed light on different areas of the emotional condition by working with fresh and exciting talent.

Writer & Director: Callum O’Mara | Featuring: Ned Mathers, Brody McCarthy | Lighting Designer: Ty Wallent | Producers: Luca Catalano, Christine Pearsall