CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF
Image: Photo by Heidrun Lohr
Reviving classics doesn’t have to feel old and tired. In director Simon Stone’s latest offering he promises great drama, comedy, sex and booze.
The Pulitzer Prize-winning play was also Tennessee Williams’ favourite. Stepping into the shoes of the much-loved characters are Jacqueline McKenzie, Ewen Leslie and Lynette Curran.
Green Room award-winner and Belvoir Street veteran Rebecca Massey is taking on Mae, a character she describes as vile. “Playing her is great fun,” she explains. “She’s very family-oriented and in the difficult position of having to secure her future from behind her husband’s back. Everyone in the play is a villain and that’s what is so great about it. But … she just wants to look after her family. That’s not a bad thing.”
Audiences shouldn’t expect Mississippi accents, a choice Massey feels makes it easier to connect with the play. “It’s less character and more us. It feels closer to what the playwright was trying to do.”
“[Williams] has managed to pin really painful stuff with brilliant comedy so it doesn’t feel like you can’t bear it. It’s masterful.”
Feb16-Apr 7, Belvoir St Theatre, 25 Belvoir St, Surry Hills, $45-65, 9699 3444 belvoir.com.au
Apr 10-21, Theatre Royal, 108 King St, Sydney, $35-90, 1300 723 038, ticketmaster.com.au
