True tragedy inspires play
Off the Leash Theatre will present a powerful theatre piece inspired by a true tragic death at the Old Drouin Butter Factory over the next two weeks.
Continuing its tradition of thoughtprovoking theatre, Off the Leash will present “The Laramie Project” over a six-show season starting on Friday night.
The play was inspired by the death of young, gay university student Matthew Shepard who was bashed, tied to a wooden fence and left to die. It looks at the impact violence can have on a small rural community and puts a spotlight on violent hate crime.
At a time when acceptance of people’s choices is at the forefront of social consciousness, The Laramie Project looks at all facets of the argument through the small town residents.
Playwrights Moises Kaufman and The Tectonic Theatre Project conducted over 200 interviews in Laramie, Wyoming and transcribed these into a breathtaking collage.
It is the portrayed attitudes which will resonate with audiences as they question, refute and accept how one man’s death led to so much social debate.
The Off the Leash cast includes familiar faces who return to the stage and some new members joining the company for the first time.
They bring youth, vitality and experience to the stage as subtle stage positioning combined with swift and many costume changes create an atmosphere of intense pathos as the plot delves into the factors leading up to and following Matthew’s death.
Returning are Lucas Thomas and Tessa Waters (“The Boys” 2014), Xavier Lee and Carmel Walton (“Summer of the Aliens” 2015), Sharryn Marshall (“Wild Dogs” 2013, “Better is Peace” 2015, “Summer of the Aliens” 2015), and Annette O’Shea (“Face to Face” 2012, “Better is Peace” 2015).
Daniel Warenycia steps out from behind the scenes and takes on his first acting role for the company. Keira Jarred, Anthony Kennedy and John Molden are new faces bringing extensive experience.
Rounding out the cast is Todd Miller (“Summer of the Aliens” 2015, “Milo’s Wake” 2016, “Checklist for an Armed Robber” 2017) who has the integral role of the narrator.
Todd, winner of the GAT in 2016 for most outstanding male in a lead role, will also make his directorial debut for Off the Leash.
Passionate about this play for many years, he is thrilled to bring the poignant story to the newly refurbished Old Drouin Butter Factory.
“The Laramie Project” will be performed on Friday at 7.30pm, Saturday at 2pm and 7.30pm, Friday, October 20 at 7.30pm and Saturday, October 21 at 2pm and 7.30pm.
Tickets are $30 for adults and $25 for concession. For bookings, visit offtheleashtheatre.com.au