The Events was the sleeper hit of the 2013 Edinburgh Festival and Clare Watson was instrumental in bringing this mesmerising theatre work to Australia in 2016, to direct its premiere for the Sydney Festival. After successful seasons in Adelaide, Sydney and Melbourne, this acclaimed production is set to have its Perth premiere.
One of Australia’s most powerful actors, Catherine McClements (Water Rats, Rush), plays Claire, a vicar and leader of a community choir that regularly meet in a local town hall. When a young man enters the hall and opens fire, her beloved community – and the ideals that sustain it – is blown apart.
Set in the wake of the tragedy, a conversation unfolds between Claire and the young man. She is unpacking her rage, her fears and ultimately, her forgiveness. The young man is something else: the voice of the alienated, an enemy within and a lost generation. In an era of uncertainty and inexplicable events, questions are asked and resolutions sought. Could he have been stopped?
David Greig (Midsummer: A Play with Songs) has written a beautiful story of hope and healing. The Events will be performed with a different Perth community choir at each performance. It is an extraordinary blend of theatre and music.
Details
DIRECTOR Clare Watson
SET & LIGHTING DESIGNER Geoff Cobham
MUSICAL DIRECTOR Luke Byrne
COMPOSER John Browne
CAST INCLUDES Johnny Carr, Catherine McClements, Perth community choirs
SUITABILITY 16+
WARNING Adult themes, strong language.
A Belvoir, Malthouse and State Theatre Company of South Australia production, presented by Black Swan State Theatre Company.