Topics come flooding in

I’ve been so busy performing in my new show Petroleum that I didn’t really have the time to think of any ideas for columns. So I thought I’d throw open the invite, the first three of my friends who came up with an idea for a column, would get to pick the topics, within reason. I put the call out on the book of Face and suddenly my inbox filled. I didn’t have to reject any of the first three, thank God number four didn’t get in – strange indeed! (You know who you are!!!!)

I’ve been so busy performing in my new show Petroleum that I didn’t really have the time to think of any ideas for columns. So I thought I’d throw open the invite, the first three of my friends who came up with an idea for a column, would get to pick the topics, within reason. I put the call out on the book of Face and suddenly my inbox filled. I didn’t have to reject any of the first three, thank God number four didn’t get in – strange indeed! (You know who you are!!!!)

So here goes, topic one. A lot of people were very unhappy with the Belvoir and their lack of ladies! It’s strange to me that the theatre industry could contain any (or any perceived) sexism. I would have thought we would have one of the more tolerant industries. My production company has only ever used three male directors (including myself), the rest have all been women, very talented women. My hope for theatre is not that we have to talk or question about how many positions have gone to women, instead, the question should never have to arise. People should be hired for their skill, not their genitalia. Plain and simple.

Topic two, and I think this was sent to provoke me, but sadly for the sender I happen to agree. The question was, and I quote, “Why does Melbourne have a better theatre industry than Sydney?” I am a proud Sydneysider, love my city to death, but I’ll admit Melbourne has a kick arse theatre scene. The reason is mainly because people in Melbourne will take a chance and just go see a show. In Sydney if there is a drop of rain or you don’t know at least four people in the show, you won’t be going. And the other great thing about Melbourne, there are so many wonderful little venues. We are so limited in Sydney with spaces, and the same people seem to always have shows on (me included). It’s hard for producers starting out.

And finally topic three. Bless the cotton socks of the cast member who just got into third place. So on their request, let me tell you about Petroleum, on till October 10 at the Fusebox Theatre in Marrickville (www.factorytheatre.com.au) . This is my first play for blokes, an action adventure that has been keeping the audiences on the edge of their seats. So come see it, support some local theatre, or just show those Melbourne folk we can go see a show just cause it sounds good!!