HISTORICAL DRAMA HEADS FOR GPAC

Two Aussie theatre icons will join forces this month to deliver the highly entertaining World War II thriller Diplomacy at the Geelong Performing Arts Centre.

John Bell AO OBE, founder of Bell Shakespeare Company, and John Gaden (Muriel’s Wedding, Caddie), will reprise their roles to deliver a string of regional showings.

Having premiered at New South Wales’ Ensemble Theatre last year, Diplomacy comes to GPAC’s Drama Theatre for five performances from July 17-20.

Geelong has secured the successful production as part of the 2019 Deakin University Theatre Season and is the only Victorian venue to showcase it, according to GPAC chief executive officer Joel McGuinness.

“We’re thrilled that Geelong is the only Victorian venue for this incredible production. It’s a great opportunity to see two of our finest actors in action,” Mr McGuinness said.

A true story set in 1944 at Paris’ Hotel Meurice, Swedish diplomat Raoul Nordling and German General Dietrich von Choltitz meet in a “life or death situation” for the city of love.

On abandoning Paris, Hitler orders the French capital’s destruction. Raoul has less than 24 hours to convince the General to leave the landmark city standing.

The countless twists and turns of their negotiations play out across 70 minutes of comedy and wit in Cyril Gély’s, Diplomacy.

Performer and director John Bell said he is excited to be taking the production on the road.

“This extraordinary true story resonated with those familiar with the circumstances and thrilled those to whom the plot was a revelation,” Mr Bell said.

“I am so pleased to take Diplomacy to regional venues – I’m sure it will make an impact: a highly accessible, entertaining and intriguing historical drama.”

Tickets to Diplomacy at GPAC are $62 or less. To book, visit gpac.org.au or phone the Box Office on 5225 1200.