NOVEMBERISM

This November theatre lovers and emerging writers are given the chance to be a part of a brand new festival that celebrates stage writing with the theme ‘What Does it Mean to be an Adult.’ The old 505 Theatre in Surry Hills will be a place to watch plays or join in with readings, forums and workshops. I got the chance to speak with one of the event organizers, Kit Brookman. “The advantage of this festival is that it creates a supportive environment for writers to practice their craft and focus on development rather than presentation of work.” Brookman’s play, Close, was shortlisted for this year’s Patrick White Award and for NovemberISM he has written and directed Heaven which he describes as tender, sharp and funny. “It’s a comedy about growing up, death and dealing what it is to be alive.” The story centres around four teenagers who after a classmate dies in a car accident, start to question mortality and what comes after death. After summoning her spirit to talk they actually bring her back to life. “I think being an adult is about being responsible for your inner child and hopefully my play will wake up that inner child if it’s been asleep.”

Nov 2-27, 505 Theatre, Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills, $18-25 (some events by donation), novemberism.com