An original, bold and darkly funny drama, The Debate will make its world premiere as a headline attraction in Holden Street Theatres (HST) 2026 Adelaide Fringe season.
Written by and starring Holden Street Theatres Artistic Director and award-winning actor Martha Lott, The Debate has been created by the award-winning company behind GROUNDED and THAT BOY.
The production also marks the directorial debut of Nick Fagan as the newly appointed HST Director in Residence. Martha will also share the stage with her daughter, Amelia Lott Watson who will be making her Adelaide Fringe debut.
A mother sits waiting, filled with ambition and pride. Her daughter, exceptional, smart and the state’s top debater, is on the verge of national selection, a rivalry ignites that pushes motherly love to the edge. She understands the power of a campaign; it’s her job.
A campaign for success, personal ambition and political spin collide. A gripping exploration of control, morality, and the seductive power of persuasion – a mirror to our world of curated truths and competitive parenting. Darkly comic, sharply intelligent, and heartbreakingly human, The Debate asks: when every story can be spun, what chance does the truth really have?
The Debate is a brand-new Australian work emerging from HST new writing program and the 2026 in-house Holden Street program. It also marks Martha Lott’s return to playwriting and to the stage following recent accolades for lead roles in Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf (2025) and A Cheery Soul (2024).
According to Martha Lott, The Debate represents HST commitment to bringing original work to Australian audiences. “The Debate represents HST commitment to bringing original theatre to life, providing a springboard for artists and for audiences to experience exciting and cutting-edge new works,” she said.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to premiere The Debate as part of HST Adelaide Fringe 2026. Holden Street is committed to providing a gateway for artists to tour their work here and overseas, and Fringe time offers an incredible opportunity for that,” said Lott.
The Debate
The Arch at Holden Street Theatres, 32 – 34 Holden Street, Hindmarsh
Season continues to 22 March 2026
Information and Bookings: www.holdenstreettheatres.com
Image: Amelia Lott Watson and Martha Lott star in The Debate (supplied)