The Removalists Returns A Landmark Of Australian Theatre That Demands Attention

A classic of Australian theatre from one of the country’s most prolific and celebrated playwrights, David
Williamson’s The Removalists will play at Melbourne Theatre Company’s Southbank Theatre from Tuesday 11 March. Darkly humorous and daringly honest, this play feels as urgent and alive as when it debuted over 50 years ago.

When The Removalists premiered at Melbourne’s La Mama Theatre in 1971, it shattered the conventions of genteel Australian theatre and skewered the myth of the “good bloke”. Refusing to shy away from
uncomfortable truths, its most provocative revelation lies in how little has changed. With razor-sharp humour and gripping intensity, the relevance of this story has only deepened over time.

Set in an inner-suburb of Melbourne, Fiona and Kate report an act of violence to the police hoping things will be resolved peacefully. However, the local constabulary likes to handle things their own way. Over the course of one evening, hidden currents of competition, desire and brutality flowing beneath polite society will be dragged out into the open.

A theatrical event directed by Melbourne Theatre Company’s own Artistic Director Anne-Louise Sarks, The Removalists follows her hugely successful 2024 world premiere of another classic Australian text, My Brilliant Career.

Melbourne Theatre Company’s production will feature a rare oppurtunity for audiences to be pulled into the intensity of this theatrical spectacle from the very first moment, with on-stage seating available for each performance. This unique experience will put theatre-goers up close to every shift in power and emotion, making this an electrifying way to see an iconic Australian play.

Decades after it first premiered, The Removalists remains as powerful as ever, taking an unflinching look at both our past and present. Treading the line between darkly funny and biting social commentary, the play is gripping from the outset, demanding the audience’s full attention and refusing to let go.

Melbourne Theatre Company’s Artistic Director & Co-CEO Anne-Louise Sarks:

This seminal piece of theatre had a lasting impact on the independent theatre scene when it first took to the stage in 1971. The Removalists is a modern classic with an enduring legacy, a must-see for long-time David Williamson fans, the continuing relevance of this story will also speak to a new generation of audiences.

Melbourne Theatr Company celebrates the ongoing legacy of La Mama Theatre’s bold, unflinching
contributions to the independent theatre scene by contributing $5 from the sale of each on-stage ticket during the 2025 season of The Removalists.

Directed by Anne-Louise Sarks, The Removalists creative team includes Set Designer Dale Ferguson,
Costume Designer Matilda Woodroofe, Lighting Designer Niklas Pajanti, Composer and Sound Designer
Marco Cher-Gibard and Assistant Director: Liv Satchell.

The Removalists begins performances on Tuesday 11 March at Southbank Theatre, The Sumner.

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Season Details

Venue: Southbank Theatre|Summer
Date: 11 March 2025

For more information click HERE

Photo Credit: Charlie-Kinros