Leaves
Image: © Kyle Stephens
When it comes to entertainment, film, television and theatre, there is one demographic that remains vastly underrepresented – those aged 50 and over. Leaves, a new collaboration between Theatre Excentrique and Emu Productions, aims to tackle that issue, with a show that is fundamentally, “a darkly humorous reflection of what it is to have 50 years behind you,” says Excentrique’s Artistic Director, Anna Jahjah.
When asked what is behind the demographic gap, Jahjah is thoughtful. “I think there’s a fear of time passing. You might be thinking of dying, and it’s hard to play. What works most in theatre is something light and entertaining. If it’s too dark, audiences might not like it. It’s a tricky topic,” she admits. But, she says there has been great interest the piece, which deals with a group of friends celebrating turning 50 with a camping weekend.
The play, written by Steve Mcgrath, was inspired by the ‘eye-opening’ experience of Associate Artist Gerry Sont, who, after having a heart attack in April, found himself reflecting on his life. “It’s a subject that rings a bell with a lot of people,” says Jahjah. “They’re intrigued. Especially the 40 plus group, because it’s rare to see older actors and playwrights doing something that revolves around their age.” (SW)
Nov 18-29, King Street Theatre, 644 King St, Newtown (Entrance on Bray St), Tickets $28 – $33, 0423 082 015, kingstreettheatre.com.au
Written by Siri Williams
