By David Williamson
David Williamson (Don’s Party, The Removalists, The Club and Travelling North), authored in 2003, Birthrights, “a bittersweet play about motherhood” but other thought–provoking issues also arise, including: IVF; politics; family relationships; intellectual property; and moral dilemmas.
When Helen (Francesca Radice) discovers she is unable to have children, her career–driven sister Claudia (Rebecca Sharples) offers to be the surrogate mother in an act of supreme generosity.
Spanning from 1983 to 2001, the female characters are central as it explores uniquely female experience. However, the sisters’ very different partners Mark (James Chambers) and Martin (James Hunter) feature significantly, often being the objects of irony and humour. Kelly (Jacinta–Rose Burley), ‘their’ daughter, proves to be a challenging child whilst Margaret (Sally Bartley) the feisty mother of the sisters, attempts to smooth the waters.
Directed by Julie Bailey, Birthrights, an engaging play with strong characters promises a thoroughly absorbing and entertaining theatre experience.
Note: Adult themes and occasional coarse language
Show Times
February 18, 19, 24, 25, 26 at 7.30 pm / February 19, 20, 23, 26 at 2 pm
Venue
The Red Tree Theatre, 160–162 Pacific Highway, Tuggerah Straight
Bookings
Call 1300665915 or premier.ticketek.com.au
Group Bookings call 1300364001
Tickets from $25
Wyong Drama Group website – www.wyongdramagroup.com.au
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