A razor-sharp new work by Sam O’Sullivan, Ensemble Theatre presents the world premiere of McGuffin Park from 18 October 2024.
Following the success of Boxing Day BBQ, O’Sullivan reunites with Ensemble Theatre’s Artistic Director Mark Kilmurry to explore the cut-throat world of politics and media spin.
In the small Australian town of McGuffin Park, the local council is thrown into disarray when the mayor suddenly resigns a week before the mid-term election.
When a self-proclaimed ‘sovereign citizen’ with an anti-government agenda is revealed as next in line for the top job, two friends step up and announce their rival candidacies.
Can they handle the mess of politics? Or will their friendship crumble under the pressure?
“I’m thrilled to be working with Sam O’Sullivan again after our wonderful time on Boxing Day BBQ – and this play is whip cracking smart and on the beat. And with this great cast & creative team already makes it a joy,” said Mark Kilmurry.
“The play is a fun and bi ng comedy about whether or not politics and friendship should ever mix… although the ideas are really big, you’re going to see the pettiest behaviours come out onstage. I think it will be a blast for audiences to watch,” said Shan-Ree Tan (Nearer the Gods), who plays town councillor, Jack.
Directed by Mark Kilmurry, the cast includes Eloise Snape (Midnight Murder at Hamlington Hall) as rival candidate Fiona, alongside Thomas Campbell (The Memory of Water), Jamie Oxenbould (Midnight Murder at Hamlington Hall), and Lizzie Schebesta (A Doll’s House).
The iconic Aussie documentary Rats in the Ranks meets Thornton Wilder’s Our Town in this fast-paced and topical theatrical experience not to be missed.
Director: Mark Kilmurry | Featuring: Thomas Campbell, Jamie Oxenbould, Lizzie Schebesta, Eloise Snape, Shan-Ree Tan | Dramaturg: Sarah Odillo Maher | Set & Costume Designer: Simon Greer | Lighting Designer: Trudy Dalgleish | Composer & Sound Designer: Jessica Dunn | Stage Manager: Lauren Tulloh | Assistant Stage Manager: Lara Kyriazis | Costume Supervisor: Evelyn Everaerts-Donaldson | Playwright: Sam O’Sullivan
McGuffin Park
Ensemble Theatre, 78 McDougall Street, Kirribilli (North Sydney)
Season: 18 October – 23 November 2024
Information and Bookings: www.ensemble.com.au
Image: Shan-Ree Tan and Eloise Snape star in McGuffin Park (supplied)