La Boite Theatre launches its highly anticipated 2024 season with the return of cult classic, Closer, the unflinching and provocative exploration of truth, lust, desire and betrayal by celebrated British playwright Patrick Marber, this April at the Roundhouse Theatre.
This new in-the-round production, directed by La Boite Artistic Director Courtney Stewart, features an all-star Queensland cast including two-time Logie nominee Anna McGahan (House Husbands, Underbelly).
The Olivier award-winning work follows the lives of out-of-towner Alice, photographer Anna, obituary writer Dan and dermatologist Larry over several years as they meet, bond, separate and move on.
Described as “bruising and beautiful”, this dark comedy offers a confronting reality about how adults approach relationships and explores the inevitable fall-out when we cross the lines between love and lust.
“On its premiere in 1997, Closer won Olivier, Evening Standard and Critics’ Circle Awards and has since been performed in more than 200 cities across the world, including at La Boite 24 years ago,” said Director Courtney Stewart.
“This play is at the top of every actor’s bucket list and we have assembled a dream cast of Queensland greats for this brand new in-the-round production.”
Joining McGahan in the four-hander are La Boite favourites Kevin Spink (Away, An Ideal Husband), Colin Smith (From Darkness) and Sophia Emberson-Bain (Prize Fighter).
“It’s a particular thrill to welcome Anna McGahan back to La Boite, 13 years after she stole hearts – and a Matilda Award – for her mainstage debut in La Boite’s iconic production of Julius Caesar,” said Courtney.
“I have long admired the work of much-loved Brisbane actors Kevin Spink and Colin Smith and am excited to work with them for the first time, and I know Sophia Emberson-Bain will be blistering in her second La Boite production following her role in Prize Fighter. I’m obsessed with them all!”
A modern classic, 2024 marks 20 years since the film adaptation starring Julia Roberts, Natalie Portman, Jude Law and Clive Owen hit cinemas and 27 years since the searing play premiered at London’s Royal National Theatre.
Director: Courtney Stewart | Featuring: Sophia Emberson-Bain, Colin Smith, Kevin Spink, Anna McGahan | Set & Costume Designer: M’ck McKeague | Lighting Designer: Glenn Hughes | Sound Designer & Composer: Wil Hughes
Closer
Roundhouse Theatre, 6 – 8 Musk Avenue, Kelvin Grove (Brisbane)
Season: 6 – 20 April 2024 (previews: 4 – 5 April)
Information and Bookings: www. laboite.com.au
Image: Colin Smith, Sophia Emberson-Bain, Anna McGahan and Kevin Spink – photo by David Kelly