Through a Beaded Lash

Through a Beaded Lash is a dramatic comedy that pays reverence to World AIDS Day. With plenty of local history, much of the action takes place in the now closed Sydney Gay Centre in Surry Hills.

Through a Beaded Lash is about a friendship that has lasted since the 1984. Adam and Zoe bond because they are survivors of the AIDS crisis and were part of the Oxford Street gay community back in the 80’s. Their social network, their friends and lovers have died. It’s about the impact that’s had on people. They were part of an amateur drag act for fundraising, and they relive that.

“The older people from the gay community should come and enjoy a trip down memory lane, the nostalgia, the 80’s scenes are so much fun, the hope at the end is uplifting and life affirming,” explained playwright Robert Allan.

“I think when you experienced so much loss, repeated loss, you get a bit numb, and if you’re not careful that numbness can last a lifetime,” said Allan. “What happens is you start to shut down. You get stuck in a rut, a pattern of drinking [and] cynicism, your own sense of life has been taken. It’s about how you break free of that.”

He added: “It’s about what happens to the survivors of the AIDS crisis, the impact it had on people, rather than a Holding The Man angle. It’s crunch time, they can’t keep living like that, they’ve got to change.” (MS)

Nov 25–Dec 12 (8pm Wed-Sat, 5pm Sun). The Depot Theatre, 142 Addison Rd, Marrickville.$20-$29. Tickets & info: thedepottheatre.com/through-a-beaded-lash or 0428 032 838.

BY MEL SOMERVILLE