One of theatre's greatest plays comes to Geelong

TENNESSEE Williams’ masterpiece The Glass Menagerie is heading to Geelong next week in a critically acclaimed Melbourne Theatre Company production that has captivated audiences in the state capital.

The celebrated drama, regarded as one of the most influential plays of the 20th century, will arrive at Geelong Arts Centre for a limited three-show season following its Melbourne run.

More than 80 years after its 1945 premiere, The Glass Menagerie remains a cornerstone of world theatre, exploring themes of family, longing, memory and the desire to escape.

It follows the Wingfield family through the recollections of Tom Wingfield, a young man torn between responsibility to his family and his desire to forge a life of his own.

Tom Wingfield is a young man torn between responsibility to his family and his desire to forge a life of his own. Photo: Pia Johnson.

The play earned the New York Drama Critics’ Circle Award for Best Play and later became the first production to receive a Tony Award for Best Play Revival.

Director Mark Wilson said its enduring power continued to resonate with modern audiences.

“We share it with great hope that the play will continue inspiring those who encounter it – to see new possibilities in the theatre, and in life,” he said.

The production is led by acclaimed Australian actor Alison Whyte as Amanda Wingfield, alongside Tim Draxl as Tom Wingfield, Millie Donaldson as Laura Wingfield and Harry McGee as the Gentleman Caller.

The production reimagines the classic work through a fresh lens, supported by striking stage design and costuming that blurs the lines between reality and memory. Photo: Pia Johnson.

Wilson’s production reimagines the classic work through a fresh lens, supported by striking stage design and costuming that blurs the lines between reality and memory.

His interpretation has drawn praise for its contemporary approach while remaining faithful to Williams’ celebrated text.

Geelong Arts Centre chief executive and creative director Rhys Holden said the production was a standout addition to the venue’s 2026 season.

“Having had the opportunity to experience The Glass Menagerie at Melbourne Theatre Company, I was absolutely captivated by this gripping interpretation and reassured that it is a perfect fit for Geelong Arts Centre’s Season 2026,” he said.

The Glass Menagerie will be performed at Geelong Arts Centre from 11–13 June.

Tickets are available through the Geelong Arts Centre website.