2021 SEASON

1 SYDNEY THEATRE COMPANY 2021 SEASON

2 3 SYDNEY THEATRE COMPANY 2021 SEASON

Your night starts here.

The walkway, familiar, stretches out before you. The glittering water. A glimpse of the bridge. The buzz of friends in The Bar. The dark of the theatre. A sense of anticipation. A new world on stage.

Welcome back to theatre. Welcome back to The Wharf.

4 5 SYDNEY THEATRE COMPANY 2021 SEASON “It feels wonderful to be home again”

‘Act 2’ of our 2021 Season is the first to Shakespeare’s ferocious study of power and be launched since our move home to corruption, Julius Caesar, will be presented The Wharf and, as such, we’ve planned a in the round – an exciting new format for celebration of the full gamut of what theatre The Wharf. I’m also thrilled that my new is capable of – a tribute to the artform adaptation of The Picture of Dorian Gray, that brings us all together. This season is which premiered in 2020, will be returning also our first chance to tell stories in our for an encore season. newly renovated and flexible theatre spaces and my team and I have carefully curated Continuing our tradition of bringing you a series of shows that will showcase this the best new international writing, Bess historic building’s new capabilities. Wohl’s Grand Horizons and The Lifespan of a Fact by Jeremy Kareken, David Murrell Our commitment to contemporary and Gordon Farrell, are big, hilarious and Australian plays and the development of thought-provoking plays that will provide Australian theatre-makers is a central focus everyone, regardless of age and stage, a of the Company. This year I am overjoyed dazzling night at the theatre. to bring you recent works by two of the country’s most visionary writers: White Pearl Rounding out this wild ride is a show for by our Patrick White Fellow Anchuli Felicia our youngest theatre-goers, from Shake King, which we premiered in Australia & Stir Theatre Co, a musical adaptation with The National Theatre of Parramatta of Roald Dahl’s tale of heroism and revolt in 2019 and Triple X by Glace Chase, Fantastic Mr Fox. which previewed to standing ovations at This year you’ll experience The Wharf as Queensland Theatre before succumbing to you’ve never seen it before, and a whole new the closures of 2020. It also brings me great world of creative possibilities. But more joy to announce the long-awaited premiere importantly, it feels wonderful to be home of The Dismissal, a hilarious brand new again in a new but familiar place with a Australian musical that will bring 1975’s blank slate to start dreaming up the future Constitutional Crisis to vivid life. of the Company. We have a number of classics, works that With this in mind, I would like to formally continue to resonate across the decades invite you to join us in building that future and centuries, beginning with Wesley and to continuing this year of wonderful Enoch and Deborah Mailman’s landmark theatre. of Australian theatre The 7 Stages of Grieving. Led by Zahra Newman and Bert La Bonté, Lorraine Hansberry’s American masterwork A Raisin in the Sun will have its first Australian mainstage production, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman will star legendary actor Wayne Blair and

6 5 2020 SEASON The 7 Stages of Grieving BY WESLEY ENOCH AND DEBORAH MAILMAN DIRECTED BY SHARI SEBBENS

Designer A testament to love, family and resilience Elizabeth Gadsby Lighting & AV Designer The 7 Stages of Grieving is a vibrant and insightful account of Verity Hampson Composer & what it means to be an Aboriginal woman in contemporary Sound Designer Australia. On its premiere in 1995 it became an early triumph Steve Francis for Deborah Mailman and Wesley Enoch, and a beloved classic of Assistant Director Australian theatre. Ian Michael A woman stands alone on stage. Over one gripping hour, she With Elaine Crombie traces seven phases of Aboriginal history – Dreaming, Invasion, Genocide, Protection, Assimilation, Self-Determination, INSIGHT EVENTS and Reconciliation. Mailman and Enoch’s script is a potent Pre-season Briefing expression of strength and survival, as well as humour and joy. Mon 17 May 6.15pm It’s an ode to the power of storytelling. Wharf 2 Theatre Resident Director Shari Sebbens makes her STC directorial debut Night with the Artists with this moving and vital work. Helpmann Award-winner Mon 31 May and Mon 7 Jun post-show Elaine Crombie tackles this tour de force performance with her distinctive warmth and vivacity. Matinee Club Wed 2 Jun 12pm In an exciting update, brand new scenes have been added with Neilson Family Gallery Enoch and Mailman to offer a contemporary perspective on what has changed in the 26 years since the play first opened, and how far we still have to go.

The 7 Stages of Grieving’s generosity of spirit is set to be embraced by a whole new generation.

21 MAY – 19 JUN WHARF 1 THEATRE

APPROX. DURATION 1 hr

no interval Vaile. Rene Photo: Elaine Crombie.

6 7 2020 SEASON Grand Horizons BY BESS WOHL DIRECTED BY JESSICA ARTHUR AUSTRALIAN PREMIERE

Designer Parents are people too Renée Mulder Lighting Designer Nancy and Bill are calling it quits. After 50 years of ‘married Verity Hampson Composer & bliss’, Nancy wants to take a last chance at living her best life. Sound Designer And Bill? Well, Bill’s OK with it. The couple’s adult children, Ben Clemence Williams and Brian, are definitely not OK with it. Who said elderly parents Assistant Director have a right to branch out and try new things? Megan Wilding Stage legends John Bell and Linda Cropper (returning to the With John Bell STC stage for the first time in 11 years) lead an exceptional cast Linda Cropper including James Majoos, Zindzi Okenyo (The Golden Age) and James Majoos Guy Simon (Playing Beatie Bow) in a story that shows us that Johnny Nasser working out what you really want is a lifelong process. Zindzi Okenyo Guy Simon This brand new family comedy straight from pre-lockdown Broadway takes a brilliantly comedic – and ultimately moving –

INSIGHT EVENTS Pier Group Lunch look at romance and intergenerational divides in the era of self- Mon 10 May 12.30pm expression, alternative family models and... sexting. The Theatre Bar at the End of the Wharf In the hands of Resident Director Jessica Arthur (Wonnangatta, Banging Denmark), Bess Wohl’s laugh-out-loud comedy will Pre-season Briefing ponder the joys and frustrations of family, marriage, intimacy Mon 24 May 6.15pm Wharf 2 Theatre and risking it all in the search of genuine happiness.

Night with the Artists Mon 21 Jun and Mon 28 Jun post-show Zindzi Okenyo, Linda Cropper, John Bell and Guy Simon. John Bell and Guy Simon. Cropper, Linda Zindzi Okenyo, Ridler. Justin Vaile, Rene Photo:

ASSOCIATE PARTNER 7 JUN – 3 JUL ROSLYN PACKER THEATRE

PRODUCTION PATRON APPROX. DURATION CONTENT The Donor Syndicate 2 hrs 20 mins Infrequent strong language including interval Mia Wasikowska

8 9 2020 SEASON Tr i p l e X BY GLACE CHASE DIRECTED BY PAIGE RATTRAY WORLD PREMIERE

Designer Twenty-first century love Renée Mulder Lighting Designer Scotty is living the dream. A successful Wall Street banker, he has Ben Hughes Composer & just bought a Tribeca loft for a cool three million and is about to Sound Designer marry his beautiful and loaded girlfriend Kymberley. But Scotty Kelly Ryall has a secret that will outrage both his conservative mother Deb Intimacy & Fight Director and progressive sister Claire: his ongoing affair with charismatic Nigel Poulton trans drag performer Dexie. This is a hysterically funny and With wildly provocative love story. Glace Chase Josh McConville NYC-based, two-time Griffin Award-winner Glace Chase is both Christen O’Leary the writer and star of Triple X, a deep dive into the unknowable Contessa Treffone contours of attraction. Sydney Theatre Company’s Associate Elijah Williams Director Paige Rattray (The Beauty Queen of Leenane) helms a INSIGHT EVENTS brilliant ensemble cast of Josh McConville (Cloud Nine), Christen Pre-season Briefing O’Leary, Contessa Treffone (The Harp in the South) and Elijah Mon 28 Jun 6.15pm Williams. Wharf 2 Theatre Recently announced as a finalist for the prestigious international Night with the Artists Mon 12 Jul and playwriting award, the Susan Smith Blackburn Prize, this tender Mon 19 Jul post-show and brilliantly comic look at social taboos and love out of bounds is not to be missed.

CO-PRODUCER 1 JUL – 14 AUG WHARF 1 THEATRE

APPROX. DURATION CONTENT 2 hrs 30 mins Adult themes, frequent strong language, including interval sexual references and sex scenes Josh McConville and Glace Chase. Photo: Rene Vaile. Rene Photo: and Glace Chase. Josh McConville Mia Wasikowska

10 11 White Pearl BY ANCHULI FELICIA KING DIRECTED BY PRISCILLA JACKMAN

Designer There’s no such thing as bad publicity... Jeremy Allen Lighting Designer A “blisteringly funny satire” (Time Out) by one of Australia’s Damien Cooper Composer & most exciting young playwrights, White Pearl returns to STC Sound Designer after its sold-out 2019 Australian premiere with The National Michael Toisuta Theatre of Parramatta and acclaimed productions in London Composer & Associate and Washington D.C. Sound Designer Me-Lee Hay Things are heating up in the oh-so-cool Singapore headquarters Projection Designer Anchuli Felicia King of Clearday™, an upstart player in the Asian skincare game. Dramaturg Sales of their new range – ‘White Pearl’ skin-whitening cream Courtney Stewart – are going through the roof, and the ambitious team of young women have their eyes to the sky. That is, until their new TV With commercial is leaked online and starts going viral for all the Deborah An Mayu Iwasaki wrong reasons. As the views climb, the mood in the office Matthew Pearce nosedives and the team scrambles to contain the fallout and save Vaishnavi Suryaprakash more than just their jobs in the process.

INSIGHT EVENTS With a shrewd eye, acerbic wit and machine gun dialogue, STC Pre-season Briefing Mon 12 Jul 6.15pm Patrick White Playwrights Fellow Anchuli Felicia King deftly Neilson Family Gallery unravels toxic corporate culture, the complexity of Pan-Asian relations and racism in a wildly entertaining, gasp-inducing Night with the Artists night at the theatre. Mon 26 Jul and Mon 9 Aug post-show Sydney Morning Herald Sydney Theatre Company thanks the Girgensohn Time Out Foundation for their support of Australian Writing. Limelight

CO-PRODUCER 15 JUL – 4 SEP WHARF 2 THEATRE

APPROX. DURATION CONTENT 1 hr 25 mins Strong language, adult themes, sexual no interval references and themes of racial prejudice Deborah An, Mayu Iwasaki and Vaishnavi Suryaprakash. Photo: Rene Vaile. Rene Photo: Suryaprakash. Vaishnavi and Iwasaki Mayu An, Deborah Mia Wasikowska

12 13 The Picture of Dorian Gray THE GUARDIAN TIME OUT BY OSCAR WILDE ADAPTED AND DIRECTED BY KIP WILLIAMS LIMELIGHT AUDREY JOURNAL

Designer A breathtaking reimagining of a Wilde classic Marg Horwell ARTSHUB Lighting Designer Hailed as a “dizzyingly beautiful tour de force” (The Guardian) Nick Schlieper Composer & and “a theatrical coup to rival the best of Robert Lepage or Sound Designer Complicité” (Sydney Morning Herald), The Picture of Dorian Gray Clemence Williams was the hottest ticket of 2020. Don’t miss the return season of this Video Designer smash-hit production which garnered countless standing ovations David Bergman and sold-out houses during its original run. Dramaturg Eryn Jean Norvill Production Dramaturg In the hands of Artistic Director Kip Williams, Oscar Wilde’s Paige Rattray century-old fable of beauty, excess and a deal with the devil Assistant Director becomes a spectacular mirror to our times and an odyssey of Ian Michael theatrical storytelling that is “genius” and “out of this world” (Limelight). At the centre of this historic production is Eryn Jean With Eryn Jean Norvill Norvill’s virtuosic performance “that will surely be remembered as one of the greatest ever seen on an Australian stage” (Time Out). INSIGHT EVENTS Pre-season Briefing Through the inventive use of live video and a thrilling cascade of Mon 19 Jul 6.15pm theatrical transformations, Norvill nimbly shapeshifts on stage to Neilson Family Gallery play all 26 characters – from our anti-hero Dorian to his friends, Night with the Artists lovers and would-be-assassins. Unconventional and wildly creative Mon 2 Aug post-show stage craft builds a world around these characters unlike anything you have ever seen on stage – mixing elements of a lush period drama with cutting edge contemporary stage design. Original production supported by Frances Allan & Ian Narev, and Megan Exuberant, wildly witty and utterly gripping, The Picture of Dorian Grace & Brighton Grace. Gray is a triumph of theatre. Don’t miss it.

24 JUL – 22 AUG ROSLYN PACKER THEATRE

PRESENTING PARTNER APPROX. DURATION CONTENT 2 hrs Adult themes, drug use, the no interval use of theatrical haze and Eryn Jean Norvill. Photo: Daniel Boud. Photo: Jean Norvill. Eryn herbal cigarettes 14 15 2020 SEASON A Raisin in the Sun BY LORRAINE HANSBERRY DIRECTED BY SHARI SEBBENS

Designer A dream for the future Mel Page Lighting Designer A Raisin in the Sun is an iconic work of American theatre, a Verity Hampson Composer & testament to the power of family and a hymn to the Black Sound Designer experience. Clemence Williams Cultural Advisor Lorraine Hansberry wrote A Raisin in the Sun when she was Erin D. Chapman, PhD just 29 years-old and the play swiftly became a mainstay of the modern theatre canon. When it premiered in 1959, the play With Bert LaBonté was the first by an African American woman to be shown on Zahra Newman Broadway and it continues to challenge and move audiences generations later. INSIGHT EVENTS Pre-season Briefing Living in Chicago during the 1950s and optimistic about rising Mon 16 Aug 6.15pm above the injustices that have shaped their lives, the five members Neilson Family Gallery of the Younger family are all looking for ways to improve their Night with the Artists lot: some through activism, some through fortune and some Mon 13 Sep and through simple acts of self-determination. The arrival of a change Mon 20 Sep post-show of circumstance – in the form of a life insurance cheque – gives the close-knit family a chance to consider the possibility of a better life. But the distance between dreams and reality proves further than any of them anticipated.

Directed by our new Resident Director Shari Sebbens, this production marks the first time ever thatA Raisin in the Sun will be performed on an Australian mainstage. We are thrilled to welcome back Zahra Newman and Bert La Bonté to lead an exceptional cast. Don’t miss this gripping and moving story of one family which, through unparalleled writing, contains all the pathos and resilience of the human spirit.

28 AUG – 9 OCT WHARF 1 THEATRE

PRESENTING PARTNER APPROX. DURATION CONTENT 2 hrs 40 mins Infrequent strong language including interval Bert LaBonté and Zahra Newman. Photo: Rene Vaile, Justin Ridler Justin Vaile, Rene Photo: Newman. Zahra Bert and LaBonté Mia Wasikowska

16 17 2020 SEASON The Lifespan of a Fact BY DAVID MURRELL & GORDON FARRELL AND JEREMY KAREKEN DIRECTED BY ANNE-LOUISE SARKS AUSTRALIAN PREMIERE

Designer Finding truth in the post-truth era Marg Horwell Lighting Designer In her debut performance with STC, Australian legend Sigrid Sian James-Holland Composer & Sound Thornton will lead this thrilling, stylish and hyper-intelligent hit Designer Broadway comedy that tackles the great question of our time: Stefan Gregory true or false?

With Jim has finally made it – an internship at a prestigious magazine Sigrid Thornton and a once-in-a-lifetime assignment: the chance to fact check a Charles Wu new essay by a writer he idolises. INSIGHT EVENTS Pier Group Lunch But as he methodically begins his task, holding each detail up Mon 23 Aug 12.30pm to the light, he discovers that separating fact from fiction is not The Theatre Bar at the End such an easy job. Performed by Charles Wu (The Resistible Rise of the Wharf of Arturo Ui), Jim’s dogged pursuit of the facts is pitted against Pre-season Briefing the titanic ego of the essay’s author. Thornton plays the shrewd, Mon 30 Aug 6.15pm sharp-tongued editor who manoeuvres the combatants while Neilson Family Gallery pushing the article through to print. Night with the Artists Mon 27 Sep and For fans of The Newsroom and The West Wing, The Lifespan of Mon 11 Oct post-show a Fact is a timely investigation of the old truism “never let the truth get in the way of a good story.” Directed by Anne-Louise The Lifespan of a Fact is Sarks (Avalanche), this high-octane production questions how, presented by arrangement with Music Theatre in our age of fake news and big data, we’ll ever get to a world International (Australasia). that’s post-post-truth.

13 SEP – 23 OCT DRAMA THEATRE, SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE

APPROX. DURATION CONTENT 1hr 35 mins Infrequent strong language,

no interval suicide themes Vaile Rene Photo: Thornton. and Sigrid Wu Charles Mia Wasikowska

18 19 2020 SEASON ARTHUR MILLER’S Death of a Salesman DIRECTED BY PAIGE RATTRAY

Set Designer “Why must everybody conquer the world?” David Fleischer Costume Designer One of the most iconic roles of the 20th century, played by one Teresa Negroponte Lighting Designer of our greatest living actors: Wayne Blair (Wonnangatta) leads Paul Jackson a stellar cast in Arthur Miller’s timeless and utterly beautiful Composer & masterpiece. Death of a Salesman is a compassionate insight into Sound Designer the life of a family fracturing in the face of broken dreams, and Clemence Williams a stirring call to live for now. With Wayne Blair Willy Loman is lost in the wilderness of modern life. Clocking endless miles on the road in his career as a travelling salesman, INSIGHT EVENTS he’s searching for a sense of meaning. Willy longs for all his Pre-season Briefing hard work and sacrifice to bear fruit – just like it would have Mon 11 Oct 6.15pm in the old days, right? Meanwhile, his wife Linda is trying Neilson Family Gallery desperately to keep the faith and his sons are, in their own ways, Matinee Club rebelling against repeating his mistakes. Wed 3 Nov 12pm Richard Wherrett Studio In some of the best writing ever composed for the stage, Willy and his family must tear through the illusions they’ve been fed Night with the Artists Mon 8 Nov and by modern America and work out the things that really matter. Mon 15 Nov post-show STC Associate Director Paige Rattray (The Beauty Queen of Leenane) shows us the vulnerability and true beauty at the centre of some of theatre’s most heartbreaking moments. Death of a Salesman is This big-hearted and engrossing production will take a tour presented by arrangement with Music Theatre through the ruins of the American Dream and uncover the real International (Australasia). humanity that’s threatened by society’s obsession with success.

26 OCT – 20 NOV ROSLYN PACKER THEATRE

APPROX. DURATION CONTENT 2 hrs 40 mins Suicide themes including interval Wayne Blair. Photo: Rene Vaile. Rene Photo: Blair. Wayne Mia Wasikowska

20 21 2020 SEASON The Dismissal An Extremely Serious Musical Comedy BOOK BY BLAKE ERICKSON & JAY JAMES-MOODY MUSIC & LYRICS BY LAURA MURPHY CONCEIVED AND DIRECTED BY JAY JAMES-MOODY WORLD PREMIERE

Musical Director It’s time! Steven Kramer Lighting Designer Canberra, 11 November 1975. As Gough Whitlam delivers his James Wallis Choreographer iconic speech decrying his dismissal as Prime Minister, a mighty Chiara Assetta crowd of reporters throngs the steps of Parliament House. Chief Assistant Director amongst them, one of the 1970’s most iconic larrikins: Norman Kaleigh Wilkie-Smith Gunston.

With Fast forward to Sydney, 2021. The Gold Logie winner and Matthew Whittet Wollongong’s favourite son returns, played by the hilarious INSIGHT EVENTS Matthew Whittet, to narrate a rollicking, razor-sharp musical Pre-season Briefing account of Australia’s great constitutional crisis. Fans of political Mon 25 Oct 6.15pm satire will revel in this all singing, all dancing, all mud-slinging Neilson Family Gallery retelling of Canberra’s most controversial moment. Night with the Artists Mon 22 Nov and A co-production with independent music theatre powerhouse Mon 6 Dec post-show Squabbalogic, The Dismissal revives the full rogues gallery of 70s Australian politics: ambitious Whitlam, seductive Malcolm Fraser, duplicitous silver-fox Sir John Kerr, and even Her Majesty QEII as you’ve never seen her. The Dismissal was commissioned and developed by Squabbalogic The Dismissal is equal parts toe-tapping time travel and a with the support of the nuanced commentary on Australia’s place in the world today. Russell Mills Foundation, With unimpeachable wit and a cracking original score, this Seaborn, Broughton & Walford Foundation and world-premiere reckoning for the nation’s soul is set to be a Create NSW. sensational night out.

CO-PRODUCERS 29 OCT – 18 DEC DRAMA THEATRE, SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE

APPROX. DURATION CONTENT 2 hrs 30 mins Adult themes, coarse language, including interval theatrical haze and strobe lighting Matthew Whittet. Photo: Rene Vaile. Rene Photo: Whittet. Matthew Mia Wasikowska

22 23 2020 SEASON Julius Caesar BY WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE DIRECTED BY KIP WILLIAMS

Designer Ancient history? Elizabeth Gadsby Lighting Designer Caesar is riding high – after a string of military victories and Amelia Lever-Davidson Composer & prudent political manoeuvres he is the most respected person in Sound Designer Rome. But as word spreads of plans to make him an Emperor, a Stefan Gregory group of Caesar’s allies and friends gather to discuss their fears. Has the power and adoration gone to his head? Who will take up his mantle after he is gone? INSIGHT EVENTS Pre-season Briefing Mon 18 Oct 6.15pm William Shakespeare’s monumental study of the machinations Neilson Family Gallery of power and moral corruption will be thrillingly reconceived in this new production by Artistic Director Kip Williams. Set Night with the Artists against one of history’s greatest power struggles – the birth of Mon 29 Nov and the Roman Empire – the story of Julius Caesar remains shockingly Mon 13 Dec post-show relevant to our world of political populism and ever-shifting allegiances.

In an exciting new format for The Wharf, Julius Caesar will be performed in the round with the audience experiencing this thrilling production from all angles. The result will be an inventive, surprising and dynamic night of theatre that will bring new life to some of the most stirring speeches in Shakespeare’s writing and will put a new face to one of his most iconic characters.

1 NOV – 18 DEC WHARF 1 THEATRE

APPROX. DURATION 2 hrs 40 mins including interval Mia Wasikowska

24 25 2020 SEASON ROALD DAHL’S Fantastic Mr Fox ADAPTED FOR THE STAGE BY SHAKE & STIR THEATRE CO

SPECIAL OFFER

Adaptor “No one outfoxes a fox!” Nick Skubij Director One of the biggest, brightest and bushiest characters Ross Balbuziente Designer in children’s literature comes to life in this audio visual Josh McIntosh extravaganza. Lighting Designer Jason Glenwright Straight from Roald Dahl’s classic children’s romp comes the Composer & indefatigable Mr Fox, a trickster who lives in his burrow with his Sound Designer wife and pup. To keep food on the table, he slips out every night Guy Webster Video Designer to steal from his neighbours, the wicked farmers Boggis, Bunce Craig Wilkinson and Bean. When the trio, sick of being outsmarted, hatches a Illustrator nefarious plan that puts his family and friends in grave danger, Jon Weber Mr Fox and a band of woodland revolutionaries must use every ounce of cunning and wit they have to set things right. With Johnny Balbuziente Leon Cain Adapted for the stage by award-winning producers Shake & Stir Tim Dashwood Theatre Co, Fantastic Mr Fox sees live actors interact with lush and Nelle Lee beautifully realised animations, as all the magic and touching Nick Skubij detail of Dahl’s fantastical world comes to life on stage.

This is a story for children and cubs from five years old and Originally co-produced up, the perfect outing for the family and a giggle-inducing with QPAC. celebration of one of the animal kingdom’s greatest heroes.

22 SEP – 3 OCT ROSLYN PACKER THEATRE

APPROX. DURATION CONTENT 1 hr Suitable for 5+ years no interval Helen Cassidy, Nick Skubij and Johnny Balbuziente. Photo: David Fell David Photo: Balbuziente. Johnny and Skubij Nick Cassidy, Helen Mia Wasikowska

26 27 SYDNEY THEATRE COMPANY 2021 SEASON

Your Act 2 Season Ticket

28 29 SYDNEY THEATRE COMPANY 2021 SEASON Dive back into theatre with a Season Ticket

Fill your nights with new ideas and experiences with an Act 2 Season Ticket of 4 or more plays from May to Dec 2021.

BE FIRST IN LINE Season Ticket Holders get the first opportunity to book tickets and access the best available seats before the shows go on sale to the general public. Renewing 2020 Season Ticket Holders and Act 1 2021 package holders get exclusive access to a priority booking window from Fri 26 Mar to Mon 19 Apr.

SAVE ON TICKETS Book a Season Ticket and lock in great savings on tickets.

PLAN FOR GOOD TIMES Re-emerge and reunite with friends and enjoy a year of new experiences.

NO FEES Season Ticket Holders pay no transaction fees on their bookings.

SPECIAL BENEFITS Enjoy exclusive discounts plus a range of special offers in your monthly enewsletter.

GET A FREE TICKET Book all 10 plays in Act 2 by Fri 30 Apr and we’ll give you an extra ticket to an Act 2 play.

30 31 SYDNEY THEATRE COMPANY 2021 SEASON Special rewards for our most loyal theatre-goers

Star and Legend Season Ticket Holders access an extra set of perks as recognition for their loyalty and long history with the company.

LEGENDS People who have been a Season Ticket Holder for 11 or more years receive the same benefits as Stars, plus the following:

Access to the best available seats Legends have access to an allocation of the best available seats during the priority booking window. Book early to avoid STARS disappointment. People who have been a Season Ticket Holder for 3-10 years receive the following Adina Apartment Hotels benefits from our partners: Receive a 15% discount on the best available rate at any Adina hotel around Australia, The Theatre Bar at the End of the Wharf plus Legends can choose from unlimited Enjoy a free glass of selected wine with any wifi, late check-out or a room upgrade. main course.

The Theatre Bar at the End of the Wharf Walsh Bay Kitchen Enjoy a free cheese platter for two with any Dine at Walsh Bay Kitchen and receive 10% wine purchase after the show. off your total bill.

Walsh Bay Kitchen Dine at Walsh Bay Kitchen and receive Conditions apply. For full details see 15% off your total bill. sydneytheatre.com.au/starslegends

32 33 SYDNEY THEATRE COMPANY 2021 SEASON Book your Act 2 Season Ticket

Choose 4 to 10 plays from our DISCOUNTED TICKETS FOR main season to create your CONCESSION HOLDERS You can purchase a concession ticket if you Act 2 Season Ticket and unlock hold an Australian Seniors Card, Pensioner a suite of savings and benefits. Concession Card (excluding Health Care Cards), Veterans Card, current Full Time Student Card, or valid proof of age ID if you HOW TO BOOK are under 30. You will be asked to provide The easiest and quickest way to book your your proof of concession at the time of Season Ticket is online. You can select your booking. own seats and confirm your booking on the spot. Book online at sydneytheatre.com.au/2021 DATES TO NOTE Booking forms can also be downloaded from our website and emailed to MARCH [email protected] Sun 21 Mar or mailed to: Act 2 Season announced. Sydney Theatre Company 9am Fri 26 Mar – Mon 19 Apr 2021 Season Tickets Priority booking window for 2020 Season Reply Paid 85302 Ticket Holders and 2021 Act 1 package holders. Strawberry Hills NSW 2012 APRIL If you’re renewing by post, we encourage 9am Wed 21 Apr you to mail your booking ASAP. Posted Act 2 Season Tickets on sale to everyone. bookings are processed in order of receipt. 9am Fri 30 Apr Renewals are processed first, and new Season Act 2 Season Ticket Holders can exchange Tickets are processed from Tue 20 Apr. tickets.

GET IN FAST MAY If you are booking matinee or Saturday 9am Tue 4 May evening performances we recommend Single tickets for The 7 Stages of Grieving, booking early to avoid disappointment. Grand Horizons and Triple X go on sale. 9am Fri 28 May Single tickets go on sale for White Pearl, The BOOKING A GROUP? Picture of Dorian Gray, A Raisin in the Sun, The Please download a group booking form at Lifespan of a Fact, Fantastic Mr Fox, Death of a Salesman, The Dismissal and Julius Caesar. sydneytheatre.com.au/2021 and email it to [email protected]

34 35 SYDNEY THEATRE COMPANY 2021 SEASON Season Ticket prices Choose 4 to 10 plays to create your Act 2 Season Ticket and gain access to great savings and a suite of benefits.

SATURDAY PENSIONER/ PLAY ADULT SENIORS UNDER 30 PREVIEW EVENING CARD STUDENT

The 7 Stages of Grieving $54 $54 $54 $54 $44 $44

Grand Horizons $89 $86 $81 $67 $44 $44

Triple X $63 $63 $63 $63 $44 $44 White Pearl $63 $63 $63 $63 $44 $44 $44 ACCESSIBILITY STC caters for a wide range of access The Picture of Dorian Gray $89 $86 $81 $67 $44 $44 and seating requirements including tickets wheelchair access. Guide dogs are A Raisin in the Sun $89 $86 $81 $67 $44 $44 FOR UNDER 30S welcome. The Lifespan of a Fact $89 $86 $81 $67 $44 $44 Explore your love of theatre without We offer a number of Audio- breaking the bank. Under 30s Season Described, Captioned, Auslan- Death of a Salesman $89 $86 $81 $67 $44 $44 Ticket Holders pay just $44 for each 2021 Interpreted and Relaxed performances. production. The Dismissal $89 $86 $81 $67 $44 $44 Visit sydneytheatre.com.au/access for details on the schedule. Julius Caesar $89 $86 $81 $67 $44 $44 If you have access or seating $44 requirements, we will specially select tickets to suit your needs, as these tickets tickets are unable to be booked online. PREVIEW PRICES Please download a booking form Special Offers Intrepid theatre-goers are rewarded for at sydneytheatre.com.au/2021 Season Ticket Holders get exclusive discounts and early access to attending one of the first performances and email it to seasontickets@ of a production with a discounted sydneytheatre.com.au or post your Special Offers before they go on sale to the public. preview price. Previews are an essential booking form to us. part of a production’s creative journey before opening night. All Season Sydney Theatre Company SATURDAY PENS. SPECIAL OFFER ADULT SENIORS UNDER 30 PREVIEW 2021 Season Tickets EVENING CARD /STUDENT Ticket preview prices are $44 for each main season production. Reply Paid 85302 Fantastic Mr Fox $44 $44 $44 $44 $44 $40 Strawberry Hills NSW 2012

36 37 SYDNEY THEATRE COMPANY 2021 SEASON

The 7 Stages of Grieving Grand Horizons Triple X White Pearl Calendar 21 MAY – 19 JUN | WHARF 1 THEATRE 7 JUN – 3 JUL | ROSLYN PACKER THEATRE 1 JUL – 14 AUG | WHARF 1 THEATRE 15 JUL – 4 SEP | WHARF 2 THEATRE

CAPTIONED AUDIO DESCRIBED MATINEE SCHOOLS NIGHT WITH AUSLAN INTERPRETED The Picture of Dorian Gray A Raisin in the Sun The Lifespan of a Fact OC M Sch NWA PERFORMANCE PERFORMANCE CLUB PERFORMANCE THE ARTISTS PERFORMANCE 24 JUL – 22 AUG | ROSLYN PACKER THEATRE 28 AUG – 9 OCT | WHARF 1 THEATRE 13 SEP – 23 OCT | DRAMA THEATRE, SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE PRE-SEASON RELAXED P R BRIEFING PERFORMANCE

May July

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

1 1 7.30PM 2 7.30PM 3 OC 1.30PM, 7.30PM 7.30PM PREVIEW 7.30PM PREVIEW

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 4 5 6.30PM 6 6.30PM 7 1.30PM, 7.30PM 8 7.30PM 9 7.30PM 10 1.30PM, 7.30PM

9 10 11 12 13 14 15 11 12 NSW SCHOOL BEGINS 13 6.30PM 14 1PM, 7.30PM 15 7.30PM 16 7.30PM 17 1.30PM, 7.30PM 6.30PM 7.45PM PREVIEW 7.45PM PREVIEW P 6.15PM

16 17 P 6.15PM 18 19 20 21 7.30PM PREVIEW 22 7.30PM PREVIEW 18 19 6.30PM 20 6.30PM 21 7.30PM 22 7.30PM 23 7.30PM 24 1.30PM, 7.30PM 6.45PM 6.45PM 1.15PM, 7.45PM 7.45PM 7.45PM 2PM, 7.45PM P 6.15PM 7.30PM PREVIEW 23 24 P 6.15PM 25 26 7.30PM 27 1PM, 7.30PM 28 7.30PM 29 1.30PM, 7.30PM 25 26 6.30PM 27 6.30PM 28 7.30PM 29 7.30PM 30 7.30PM 31 1.30PM, 7.30PM 6.45PM 6.45PM 1.15PM, 7.45PM 7.45PM 7.45PM 2PM, 7.45PM 7.30PM PREVIEW 7.30PM 7.30PM 7.30PM 7.30PM 30 31 6.30PM

August

June SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

1 2 6.30PM 3 6.30PM 4 7.30PM 5 7.30PM 6 7.30PM 7 1.30PM, 7.30PM SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 6.45PM 6.45PM 1.15PM, 7.45PM 7.45PM 7.45PM 2PM, 7.45PM 1 Sch 2 M 3 4 5 11.30AM 1PM, 7.30PM 7.30PM 7.30PM 1.30PM, 7.30PM 6.30PM 6.30PM 1.30PM 7.30PM 7.30PM 1.30PM,1.30PM 7.30PM

8 9 6.30PM 10 6.30PM 11 7.30PM 12 7.30PM 13 7.30PM 14 1.30PM, 7.30PM 6.45PM 6.45PM 7.45PM 7.45PM 7.45PM 2PM, 7.45PM 6 7 6.30PM 8 6.30PM 9 Sch 11.30AM, 7.30PM 10 7.30PM 11 7.30PM 12 1.30PM, 7.30PM 6.30PM Sch 11.30AM 7.30PM 7.30PM 1.30PM,7.30PM 7.30PM 7.30PM PREVIEW 7.30PM PREVIEW 7.30PM PREVIEW 7.30PM PREVIEW 7.30PM

15 2PM 16 6.45PM 17 6.45PM 18 7.45PM 19 7.45PM 20 7.45PM 21 2PM, 7.45PM

13 14 QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY 15 Sch 11.30AM 16 Sch 11.30AM, 7.30PM 17 7.30PM 18 7.30PM 19 1.30PM, 7.30PM P 6.15PM 6.30PM 7.30PM 7.30PM 7.30PM 1.30PM,7.30PM 7.30PM 6.30PM 6.30PM 1PM, 7.30PM 7.30PM 7.30PM 1.30PM, 7.30PM 6.30PM 22 2PM 23 6.45PM 24 6.45PM 25 7.45PM 26 7.45PM 27 7.45PM 28 2PM, 7.45PM 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 6.30PM 6.30PM 1PM, 7.30PM 7.30PM 7.30PM 1.30PM, 7.30PM 7.30PM PREVIEW

29 30 6.45PM 31 6.45PM 27 28 NSW SCHOOL HOLS 29 OC 6.30PM 30 1PM, 7.30PM 6.30PM 7.30PM PREVIEW 7.30PM PREVIEW P 6.15PM P 6.15PM

381 392 SYDNEY THEATRE COMPANY 2021 SEASON

CAPTIONED AUDIO DESCRIBED MATINEE SCHOOLS NIGHT WITH AUSLAN INTERPRETED OC M Sch NWA White Pearl A Raisin in the Sun The Lifespan of a Fact Fantastic Mr Fox PERFORMANCE PERFORMANCE CLUB PERFORMANCE THE ARTISTS PERFORMANCE 15 JUL – 4 SEP | WHARF 2 THEATRE 28 AUG – 9 OCT | WHARF 1 THEATRE 13 SEP – 23 OCT | 22 SEP – 3 OCT | ROSLYN PACKER THEATRE DRAMA THEATRE, SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE PRE-SEASON RELAXED P R BRIEFING PERFORMANCE Death of a Salesman The Dismissal Julius Caesar 26 OCT – 20 NOV | ROSLYN PACKER THEATRE 29 OCT – 18 DEC | 1 NOV – 18 DEC | WHARF 1 THEATRE DRAMA THEATRE, SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE

September November

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

1 7.45PM 2 7.45PM 3 7.45PM 4 2PM, 7.45PM 1 6.30PM 2 6.30PM 3 M 1PM, 7.30PM 4 7.30PM 5 7.30PM 6 1.30PM, 7.30PM 7.30PM 1.30PM, 7.30PM 8PM PREVIEW 7.30PM PREVIEW 8PM 8PM 8PM 1.30PM, 8PM 7.30PM PREVIEW 7.30PM PREVIEW 7.30PM PREVIEW 7.30PM

5 6 6.30PM 7 6.30PM 8 1PM, 7.30PM 9 10 7.30PM 11 1.30PM, 7.30PM 7 8 6.30PM 9 6.30PM 10 Sch 11.30AM, 7.30PM 11 7.30PM 12 7.30PM 13 1.30PM, 7.30PM 6.30PM 6.30PM 1PM, 8PM 8PM 8PM 1.30PM, 8PM 6.30PM 6.30PM 1PM, 7.30PM 7.30PM 7.30PM 1.30PM, 7.30PM

12 13 6.30PM 14 6.30PM 15 1PM, 7.30PM 16 7.30PM 17 7.30PM 18 1.30PM, 7.30PM 14 15 6.30PM 16 OC 6.30PM 17 7.30PM 18 7.30PM 19 7.30PM 20 OC 1.30PM, 7.30PM 8PM PREVIEW 8PM PREVIEW 8PM PREVIEW 8PM PREVIEW 8PM 6.30PM 6.30PM 8PM 8PM 8PM 1.30PM, 8PM 6.30PM 6.30PM Sch 11.30AM, 7.30PM 7.30PM 7.30PM 1.30PM, 7.30PM

19 20 NSW SCHOOL HOLS 21 6.30PM 22 7.30PM 23 7.30PM 24 7.30PM 25 1.30PM, 7.30PM 21 22 6.30PM 23 6.30PM 24 8PM 25 8PM 26 8PM 27 1.30PM, 8PM 6.30PM 6.30PM 1PM, 8PM 8PM 8PM 1.30PM, 8PM 6.30PM 6.30PM Sch 11.30AM, 7.30PM 7.30PM 7.30PM 1.30PM, 7.30PM 6.30PM 6.30PM PREVIEW 10.30AM 10.30AM, 2.30PM

26 10.30AM, 2.30PM 27 6.30PM 28 6.30PM 29 7.30PM 30 7.30PM 28 29 6.30PM 30 6.30PM 6.30PM 6.30PM 8PM 8PM 6.30PM 6.30PM R 10.30AM, 2.30PM 10.30AM

October December

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 1 7.30PM 2 1.30PM, 7.30PM 1 8PM 2 8PM 3 8PM 4 1.30PM, 8PM 8PM 1.30PM, 8PM 1PM, 7.30PM 7.30PM 7.30PM 1.30PM, 7.30PM 10.30AM 10.30AM, 2.30PM

3 10.30AM, 2.30PM 4 LABOUR DAY 5 NSW SCHOOL BEGINS 6 Sch 11.30AM, 7.30PM 7 7.30PM 8 7.30PM 9 1.30PM, 7.30PM 5 6 6.30PM 7 6.30PM 8 8PM 9 8PM 10 8PM 11 1.30PM, 8PM 6.30PM 6.30PM 8PM 8PM 8PM 1.30PM, 8PM 6.30PM 6.30PM 1PM, 7.30PM 7.30PM 7.30PM 1.30PM, 7.30PM 6.30PM 6.30PM

10 11 6.30PM 12 6.30PM 13 8PM 14 8PM 15 8PM 16 1.30PM, 8PM 12 13 6.30PM 14 6.30PM 15 8PM 16 8PM 17 NSW SCHOOL HOLS 18 1.30PM, 8PM P 6.15PM 6.30PM 6.30PM 7.30PM 7.30PM 8PM 1.30PM, 7.30PM 7.30PM

17 18 6.30PM 19 6.30PM 20 8PM 21 8PM 22 8PM 23 1.30PM, 8PM 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 CHRISTMAS DAY P 6.15PM

24 25 P 6.15PM 26 7.30PM PREVIEW 27 7.30PM PREVIEW 28 7.30PM PREVIEW 29 7.30PM PREVIEW 30 8PM PREVIEW 26 BOXING DAY 27 PUBLIC HOLIDAY 28 PUBLIC HOLIDAY 29 30 31 NEW YEAR’S EVE 8PM PREVIEW

31

403 414 SYDNEY THEATRE COMPANY 2021 SEASON Your safety at Pick up a the theatre is our program highest priority Delve deeper into each show with our souvenir programs. Packed with essays, photographs, exclusive interviews, and insights from the cast and creative team, our programs are essential reading for The safety of our audiences, artists and STC IS COVID SAFE a night at the theatre. staff is of paramount importance and STC We’ve implemented will continue to act in strict compliance extensive safety and with directions from NSW Health. hygiene measures including The public health situation arising from the wearing of masks in the COVID-19 pandemic is constantly the auditorium. These will changing. Please be aware that when be updated as advice and you come to the show, you will be seated NSW Government guidelines change. The according to the NSW Public Health latest safety measures can be found on our orders prevailing at the date of the website at sydneytheatre.com.au/safety performance, not at the time of buying your ticket. FREE EXCHANGES During this public health situation, we’ve At times, due to STC’s enhanced COVID-19 temporarily updated our ticket returns safety plans, the NSW Government may and exchange policy and now offer free grant a special exemption allowing the exchanges, subject to availability and some company to perform to larger capacities conditions, up to two hours before the than current Health Orders. show. More info at sydneytheatre.com.au/ exchanges Please consider how comfortable you will be should you arrive at the theatre to a full house, and sitting next to people PRE-SHOW REMINDER & SAFETY INFO outside your immediate group. By the Sign up to our enewsletter to stay up-to- time of your performance, this may once date with production information, casting again be a safe way to gather. Based on updates, show length and content warnings. this regularly evolving situation, we will We’ll send you a pre-show email a few days continue to offer refunds up to the date of before you come to the theatre. performance to ticket holders who have concerns with returning to a busy theatre.

We thank you for your patience and support during these unprecedented and uncertain times.

42 43 Photo:Jono Perry SYDNEY THEATRE COMPANY 2021 SEASON

A fully flexible theatre space

END ON CORNER IN THE ROUND

44 45 SYDNEYSYDNEY THEATRE THEATRE COMPANY COMPANY 2021 SEASON

Beyond the stage

46 4747 SYDNEY THEATRE COMPANY 2021 SEASON Our Artist Programs “Our Resident Artists are a collection of incredibly talented theatre-makers whose contribution to our creative vision is reflected on STC stages every year, and will continue to resonate in the works we produce for many years to come. With STC’s investment in their development, they will shape the future of Australian theatre.”

KIP WILLIAMS, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

With a proud heritage as a creative hub current Patrick White Fellow is Anchuli and incubator for Australian theatre Felicia King, whose hit play White Pearl and theatre-makers, Sydney Theatre will be restaged in Wharf 2 Theatre from Pictured: Kip Williams with the 2019/2020 Emerging Writers: Company has a range of Artist Programs July. Also announced each May, the Patrick James Elazzi, Jordyn Fulcher, Wendy Mocke, Enoch Mailangi aimed at developing new writing, diverse White Playwrights Award is given to voices and a collaborative environment an original and ambitious unproduced that encourages artistic excellence. script with strong theatrical potential. DESIGN ASSOCIATE PROGRAM May 2020. Bringing together the resources RESIDENT ARTISTS EMERGING WRITERS GROUP An exciting new initiative, formed as part of STC’s directors and NIDA’s emerging Our Resident Artists play a key role in the Now in its fifth year, the Emerging of STC’s Cultural Representation Pledge, actors, this program enables a theatrical day-to-day artistic life of the company Writers Group seeks to encourage the Design Associate Program aims to work by a NIDA writing graduate to be including directing mainstage shows the next generation of Australian address the lack of representation of developed and considered for performance and Rough Draft development weeks, playwrights, supporting their professional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and by STC. The 2020 recipient was Emme Hoy. supporting our community programs development, expanding their skill culturally and linguistically diverse theatre There are a number of other key and leading workshops and masterclasses. sets and helping them discover and designers. A paid annual Resident Artist artist-focused initiatives that make Our current Resident Artists are Associate hone their own distinctive voices. Program, the Design Associate Program up STC’s development programs and Director Paige Rattray, Resident Directors will mentor and help upskill artists in set, supported pathways. These initiatives Jessica Arthur and Shari Sebbens, and CAAP DIRECTORS INITIATIVE costume, lighting, sound design, music include Assistant Director positions, Richard Wherrett Fellow Courtney Stewart. The CAAP Directors Initiative was created composition and other creative fields to Rough Draft script developments, to unearth, nurture and develop Asian help them transition into theatre work. The commissions, project developments PATRICK WHITE PLAYWRIGHTS Australian directors for the stage. Working first participants of the Design Associate and further NIDA/STC collaboration. FELLOW AND AWARD with Contemporary Asian Australian Program will be announced later in 2021. The Patrick White Playwrights Fellowship Performance (CAAP), in partnership For more information on artist programs, is a year-long position awarded each May to with Queensland Theatre and Melbourne NIDA PATHWAYS COMMISSION visit sydneytheatre.com.au/artists an established playwright in recognition of Theatre Company, Sydney Theatre Company In partnership with the National Institute Supported by STC’s Artist Program Donors. their excellent body of work and includes developed a two-year tailored training of Dramatic Art (NIDA), the STC and NIDA a commission to write a new play. STC’s program for selected participants. Pathways Commission was introduced in

48 49 SYDNEY THEATRE COMPANY 2021 SEASON and space to get to know the writers she’s the room is full of different people’s working with. “Everyone needs something energies, and ideas, and lives. If you get that different and everyone has a different chemistry right, it’s on fire. It lights up.” way of telling stories. So it’s more about figuring out what they want to say and For Arthur, it’s not just the artists in the the best way you can help them say it.” In room who help shape a new work. “To hear 2021, Glace Chase’s Triple X, which Rattray an audience respond to the play at the end of originally directed as a Rough Draft, will a Rough Draft week helps you hear and feel have its Sydney premiere at The Wharf. things in such a different way. It heightens your senses and your awareness to another “It’s more level, and it helps you focus on storytelling.” about figuring out what they want to say and the best way you can help Pictured: Associate Director Paige Rattray, Meyne Wyatt and Christen O’Leary them say it.”

Rough Draft weeks are also an important way to share skills and knowledge across Rough Drafts the industry. “It was really useful to come in and work with an established Sydney Theatre Company’s Rough Draft “I can get really deep into the ideas of the playwright, especially when I first arrived program provides playwrights, both play with a group of great actors, and also as the Richard Wherrett Fellow,” explains emerging and established, with the get to know new playwrights and their Arthur. “I’ve been able to learn a lot – from invaluable opportunity to develop works- creative processes. So, I find it really valuable established playwrights, experienced in-progress over an intensive week of because it makes me more equipped when actors, and of course, Polly. You get a real workshops and script development sessions. it comes to any type of storytelling.” range of experience in the room, and Collaborating with a specially selected everyone can learn from each other.” cast of actors, directors and STC Literary Rough Drafts are a fantastic Above: Resident Director Jessica Arthur Manager Polly Rowe, the participants put “If you get that their work through its paces and present time to “form new creative “I think the audience is way more a live reading at the end of the week to an relationships.” chemistry right, audience made up of members of the public. it’s on fire. It valuable to the development The program, which has been a key pillar process than they realise.” of STC’s development pathway since 2007, Arthur has worked on a number of lights up.” Join the audience at our next Rough is a chance for playwrights to take their Rough Draft works including Van Draft showing. Announced throughout projects to the next level, and is also hugely Badham’s Banging Denmark, which made Rattray, who is well known for championing the year in our enewsletter and website, beneficial for the other creatives involved. its way onto the Sydney Opera House stage as part of STC’s 2019 Season. new Australian plays, thinks this Rough Drafts are free to attend. collaborative nature of a Rough Draft is STC Resident Director Jessica Arthur says Supported by STC’s Artist Program Donors. that Rough Drafts are a fantastic time For STC Associate Director Paige Rattray, one of the most rewarding parts: “Many to “form new creative relationships.” Rough Draft intensives give her the time brains are more interesting than one...

50 51 SYDNEY THEATRE COMPANY 2021 SEASON

creation of a sustainable, equitable An investment in and thriving arts community. “I would not have run the Sydney Festival the future and then be here, directing Appropriate,” Wesley says, “if someone didn’t help As one of the largest employers of theatre-makers in Australia, support me all those years ago.” Sydney Theatre Company plays an enormous part in creating “It’s invaluable,” says Shari, reflecting opportunities for artists. Many of these opportunities are made on the creative benefits of being part of STC. “Being able to have access possible thanks to the generosity of our donors. to a group of minds that think so differently to you but are inspired and driven by the same motivation to Former STC Resident Director Wesley “In the performing arts, you have to invest communicate to our community.” Enoch is returning to STC in 2021 as in the artist long-term, invest in them as both a director and a playwright, and an individual. You have to find ways of For both of them, ensuring the support sat down with current Resident Director supporting them, by buying a ticket, by they receive flows on, particularly Shari Sebbens to discuss the long-term donating money to develop their career, for fellow First Nations artists, is ripple effects of the support they’ve because you don’t know where the value an integral part of their role. received in their careers. is going to come later,” says Wesley. “The job is to try to make more The former Artistic Director of Sydney opportunities and to make sure Festival, Wesley is directing STC’s whatever door has been closed production of Appropriate by Branden behind you, you wrench open and you Jacobs-Jenkins in March. Shari will act remove the hinges so there’s no door as Wesley’s Assistant Director for this there anymore,” Wesley explains. Above: Wesley Enoch, Director of Appropriate in STC’s 2021 Season production before making her STC Shari is starting to see that impact, directorial debut with The 7 Stages of remarking: “I don’t feel alone. In fact, we Grieving which Wesley wrote, back “The job is to try to make more feel quite empowered and we feel like we’re in 1995, with Deborah Mailman. immovable because there are so many of us opportunities and to make sure now, and I know that that certainly wasn’t whatever door has been closed the case, even 20 years ago. That’s good.” “I don’t feel behind you, you wrench open alone. In fact, Both Shari and Wesley say they’ve been and you remove the hinges so we feel quite especially humbled by the outpouring of support that companies like STC have there’s no door there anymore.” empowered and been shown during 2020 theatre closures we feel like we’re by generous individuals, including those donating back tickets to cancelled shows. “It’s an investment in the arts, but it’s also immovable.” an investment in our national identity “The idea that someone, so freely … and you can’t put a price on that.” and generously, can give like With a twenty-year space between their that is amazing,” says Shari. You can support creative career pathways tenures, Wesley and Shari agree that at STC by making a donation with your pathways like the donor-supported “It sounds so clichéd, but it’s an Season Ticket or at sydneytheatre.com.au/ Above: Resident Director Shari Sebbens STC Artists Program are crucial to the investment in the future.” donate

52 53 SYDNEY THEATRE COMPANY 2021 SEASON Step behind the curtain

Pictured: The company of Playing Beatie Bow

Insight Event diary

Pictured: Resident Director Jessica Arthur, Andrea Demetriades and Anthony Taufa

Sydney Theatre Company is home to some For the latest news and complete list of all of the country’s most inspiring actors and upcoming events visit our website creatives. Our Insight Events are just one of sydneytheatre.com.au/insightevents the ways we invite you to connect with our artists, and be a part of our creative family.

You’ll get up close with some of your favourite actors, and go behind the scenes of some of your favourite plays. You’ll delve into the mechanics of theatrical magic, and get an exciting glimpse into new works as they go from script to stage.

54 55 SYDNEY THEATRE COMPANY 2021 SEASON STC artists head back to school

For over a decade, Sydney Theatre STC’s growing cohort of Teaching Artists Company’s School Drama™ program has includes Anita Hegh, a beloved mainstay enriched teacher professional learning of the Australian stage seen most recently and boosted student literacy in classrooms in The Harp in the South and The Resistible across Australia. Delivered in partnership Rise of Arturo Ui; and Courtney Stewart, with The University of Sydney, it’s an award- our current Richard Wherrett Fellow winning combination of drama strategies, whose work at STC includes dramaturgy proven methodology and children’s on our production of White Pearl and literature, that equips teachers – and their Playing Beatie Bow, our first production students – with invaluable new skills and back at the new Wharf.

understanding. At the heart of the program Pictured: Richart Wherrett Fellow Courtney Stewart is the co-mentoring relationship between with students from Artarmon Public School the classroom teacher and the STC Teaching “It’s really great to see the Artist, a theatre professional or artist with process first hand of how a passion for sharing creative approaches to Though Courtney and Anita’s key focus “[It] helped me learn this monologue, teaching and learning. kids embody a text and let is always helping teachers and students, helped me remember that sense of play, even their imaginations go.” delivering the program has also had some through heavy material. It stopped the work unexpected effects on their artistic process. being bogged down.” For Anita, who studied teaching before In 2021, Courtney and Anita will be just she landed at NIDA, the School Drama two of almost forty Teaching Artists around program was a unique chance to revisit a “...drama is a great the country, delivering the program to lifelong passion. way for the teacher hundreds of teachers across Greater Sydney, “It’s really great to see the process first to see that student’s Darwin, Albury-Wodonga, Melbourne, hand of how kids embody a text and let potential.” Canberra, Perth, Brisbane and Auckland. It their imaginations go. How much more is these Teaching Artists, and their creativity, excited they become about writing and dynamism and commitment to education, oracy than if they’re just sitting and “When you look at School Drama, it’s trying who have helped shape School Drama into reading.” to break open literacy for both teachers the leading program it is today. and students and look at different ways to For Courtney, the program was a first access that material,” Courtney says. “When Find out more at foray into teaching – and one that has you’re working with theatre and making sydneytheatre.com.au/education shifted her thinking about the way we live performance, a huge part of your task is Supported by STC’s Education and Community Donors. educate children. comprehension. If the audience doesn’t get it, what’s the point?” “A lot of the time you get a teacher saying ‘this student probably won’t engage’, or Anita agrees, noting School Drama helped ‘this student struggles with this’, [so] her wade through the dense material of her

Above: Anita Hegh with students from Woollahra drama is a great way for the teacher to see highly-acclaimed solo show A Room of One’s Primary School that student’s potential.” Own at Belvoir.

56 57 SYDNEY THEATRE COMPANY 2021 SEASON

58 59 SYDNEY THEATRE COMPANY 2021 SEASON Our Partners Walsh Bay

Sydney Theatre Company celebrates the support of our valued partners. Kitchen

PRESENTING PARTNERS With Walsh Bay now home to the Roslyn Packer Theatre and our newly renovated Wharf, there are now twice as many a b reasons to head down to the stylish Walsh Bay Kitchen. A cornerstone of the local dining scene, Walsh Bay Kitchen offers GOVERNMENT SUPPORT a dedicated pre-theatre dining menu, special offers for Stars and Legends, and the ease of dining right near the theatre.

After cutting her teeth working at Sydney Theatre Company is supported Sydney Theatre Company is assisted by the some of Sydney’s finest restaurants, by the NSW Government through Australian Government through the Australia Create NSW Council, its arts funding and advisory body alongside top chefs like Kylie Kwong and Neil Perry, Head Chef Juo Chao has devised her own menu full of flavour ASSOCIATE PARTNERS and heart. Expect intuitive, seasonal fare; a meld of ancient Chinese cooking techniques and fresh, modern twists.

...an enticing

SEASON PARTNERS fusion menu, extensive drinks list and a fantastic location.

Dine with friends before the show, or catch up over supper and a glass of wine. With an enticing fusion menu, extensive SOUTHERN STEEL GROUP drinks list, knowledgeable staff and a fantastic location, Walsh Bay Kitchen is CORPORATE SUPPORTERS the perfect pre- or post-show experience.

City of Sydney Hospitality Management Australia Tourism & Transport Forum To book call 1300 368 801 or visit sydneytheatre.com.au/walshbaykitchen

60 61 SYDNEY THEATRE COMPANY 2021 SEASON

The Theatre Bar at The End of The Wharf

A gem of the waterfront, Sydney’s best kept to nibble on, a full meal, or just a glass secret has reopened. After three years The of something fun, The Theatre Bar at Theatre Bar at the End of the Wharf is back, the End of the Wharf has you covered. offering unparalleled, sweeping views along the water: from Balmain East to Kirribilli, and every bay in between. We’re so excited to welcome you back. It’s your Theatre Sip perfectly-chilled rosé while Sydney Harbour laps around you, share a meal Bar, but better. with friends before a show, or stop by for a clock-off beer and that matchless view. For bookings and more information Whether you’re in the mood for something visit sydneytheatre.com.au/thebar

62 63 SYDNEY THEATRE COMPANY

Contact us

BOX OFFICE Sydney Theatre Company Wharf 4/5, 15 Hickson Road Walsh Bay NSW 2000 Telephone (02) 9250 1777 Toll-free 1800 467 993 (non-Metro NSW)

POST Sydney Theatre Company PO Box 777 Millers Point NSW 2000

CREDITS Art direction Other imagery Nisha Agiasotis Grant Sparkes-Carroll pg 1, 32, 34, 56 Project management Prudence Upton pg 2-3, 46, 50, 51, 55 Sophie Withers, Anika Chapman Rene Vaile pg 4, 28, 37, 63 Photography Charles Choi pg 25 Rene Vaile, Justin Ridler Brett Boardman pg 30-31, 43, 44-45, 62 Photography assistants Ken Butti pg 49 Seok-Ho Yoon, Camillo Bustamente, Alex Waugh Shara Parsons pg 52, 53, 54 Graphic design Hon Boey pg 57 Nisha Agiasotis, Nadia Dubrovic, Shara Parsons Copywriting Photography styling Patrick Carey, Anika Chapman, Sophie Withers Charles Davis, Jeremy Allen, Olivia Foulds Print Hair and makeup Special T Kelly Tapp, Yvonne Tran, Cherry Cheung, Jaimee Crofts, Charlotte McCleod, Kylie O’Toole, Isabella Schimid

Details in this book are correct at time of publication, Feb 2021. Sydney Theatre Company reserves the right to add, withdraw or substitute artists and to vary the program and prices. Full terms and conditions available on our website.

64 SYDNEY THEATRE COMPANY

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