| The Soldier and the Thief wait on a Bridge over the River Thames while Oblivion waves Hello |
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…’about shame, imminent death and the encroaching fingers of madness that can wrap themselves around those who don’t know. Or just don’t want to know.’
Oliver Torr, co-writer, director, and actor in one of last year’s most acclaimed independent Australian films: Burke and Wills, is to launch his new play at the Old Fitzroy Theatre this February.
Burke and Wills was made in association with artistic partner Matt Zeremes (Holding the Man). The film was selected for screening at the prestigious Tribeca Film Festival and went on to critical acclaim last year at both film festivals, and in theatres nationally. Torr and Zeremes have just finished shooting their second film, which will also be submitted to Tribeca this year.
But first comes The Soldier and the Thief wait on a Bridge over the River Thames while Oblivion waves Hello… 'I agree the title is a bit long,' says Torr, 'but it seems to get peoples attention!’
The play reflects Torrs usual pared back, insightful and highly truthful style which saw him shortlisted for the prestigious Griffin Drama Award for playwriting in 2007.
Directed by talented newcomer Jessica Tuckwell, it revolves around the hopes, fears and decisions made by ordinary people sucked into a nasty global war. 'The days of living in a domestic bubble are over,' says Tuckwell, 'Anyone who still thinks that global issues don't effect their lives or vice versa needs to see this play.'
Torr promises the play with the overly long title will offer an intriguing night at the theatre, and bring horror and humour in equal measure: 'Podiatry. Its the new anal.'
Under Tuckwells direction, the play exposes both the power and the vulnerability of its characters, ranging from a deranged yet talented novelist to the impatient musings of a good-natured ghost. It also peers into the scarily reminiscent mind of an absent-minded president more interested in eating at the Waldorf than which world city to obliterate:
'London. Thats where we’ll nuke. Not Paris. Yeah. I sort of like Paris more than London…’
Intrigued? Don’t wait on that bridge forever – get on down to The Old Fitz!
A World Premiere by Oliver Torr
The Soldier and the Thief wait on a Bridge over the River Thames while Oblivion waves Hello
Director: Jessica Tuckwell
Designer: Owen Kunnen
Cast: Oliver Torr, Gertraud Ingeborg, Jamie Irvine, Samantha Young, Peter Carmody, Damien Freeleagus, Dean Mason, Danielle Jackson
Venue: The Old Fitzroy Theatre – Cnr Cathedral & Dowling Sts, Woolloomooloo.
Season: 19th Feb – 15th March 2008
Times: Tuesday – Saturday @ 8pm & Sunday @ 5pm
Opening: Friday 22nd Feb (Invitation only)
Previews: 19th, 20th and 21st Feb @ 8pm ($16)
Tickets: $20 Concession, $28 Adult, $34 Beer, Laksa & Show
Special: Cheap Tuesdays - $16 Adult, $24 Beer Laksa & Show
Bookings: www.trstheatre.com.au or 1300 GET TIX (1300 438 849)
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