What's On

GRACE may be old and frail – but she isn’t a victim.

You can learn more about her and the shocking event that changed her life in The Greening of Grace, written by Australian actor William Zappa and directed by Tim Riessen at Stirling Theatre.

Resisting her daughter’s attempts to protect her and fuelled and challenged by her grandson’s passion, Grace becomes an unlikely eco-warrior and demonstrates every individual has the power to change the world.

“The play is told from Grace’s perspective, in retrospect, providing an insight into how her family provided a catalyst for the change,” Riessen said.

“The biggest challenge comes from Grace acting as the narrator – allowing her to tell her story is crucial but it’s not a one-person show. 

“Making sure all the characters develop their influence on the overall direction of the play is important.”

Originally performing as a teenager, Riessen has returned to the stage in recent years, appearing in Jesus Christ Superstar and an end-of-year pantomime with the Albany Light Opera and Theatre Company and The Phantom of the Opera, Pride and Prejudice, Anything Goes, Speaking in Tongues and The Darling Buds of May with Limelight Theatre.

He has also performed in You Can’t Have One at Stirling Theatre and directed David Williamson’s Let The Sunshine at Limelight Theatre in 2017.

“I was inspired to direct The Greening of Grace by what I saw as a strong character in the title role,” Riessen said.

“I was also drawn to the play because it retains an Australian flavour.”

Joining The Greening of Grace on the same bill is Lady Willpower, a gentle comedy of bad manners, deceit and a battle of siblings over a £30 million estate.

Both are being presented under the banner of “Grace and Willpower” and play at 8pm February 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 21, 22 and 23 with 2pm matinees February 10 and 17.

Tickets are $22, $20 concession – book through Morris News on 9446 9120 or at www.trybooking.com/YUAE.

Stirling Theatre is on Morris Place, Innaloo.