Turning taboo into theatre

Storytelling and the importance of shedding light on taboo topics will influence next year’s Deakin University theatre season at the Geelong Arts Centre.

The program was unveiled on Monday, with GAC chief executive officer Joel McGuinness expressing his excitement at the diversity of the eight productions that have been selected as part of the season.

“Our 2020 Deakin University theatre season demonstrates how storytelling is embedded in every fibre of what we do at Geelong Arts Centre,” he said.

“Whether the stories are told through song, movement or words, they are there to challenge, entertain and inspire. Most importantly though, they allow our audiences to see the world through a new lens.”

There will also be six “special additions” in the season which explore themes of cultural diaspora, mental health, women’s rights and the experiences of Australia’s First Nations people.

The season will open with David Williamson’s darkly comedic drama Family Values by Griffin Theatre Company (directed by Lee Lewis), which stars stage and screen stars Belinda Giblin and Andrew McFarlane.

Aligning with GAC’s commitment to the sharing of First Nations stories, the 2020 Deakin University theatre season will hero two “monumental” productions by indigenous performers and writers.

Other productions include Man With The Iron Neck (presented by Legs On The Wall), Metro Street (presented by Doorstep Arts and Geelong Arts Centre) and Rovers (presented by The Belloo Creative).

The Geelong Arts Centre 2020 Deakin University Theatre Season offers a package to suit the community’s arts lovers, with savings of up to 25 per cent for subscribers. Single tickets are also available for every show.

For more information, head to geelongartscentre.org.au.