MTC Season 2012: Don't miss the moment

2012

Welcome to Season 2012 Theatre is the great temporal art form, experienced by the audience from moment to moment.

And it’s the moments that stay with us. Not all moments, of course; just a few special moments that catch in the mind: an image, a line, a gesture, a flash of brilliance, a thrill – glittering shards that stand for the whole. MTC spills out these bright, gem-like moments that defy the erosion of memory.

Perhaps it is our fleeting tenure as programmers that got us thinking about the ephemeral nature of theatre and prompted the ‘Don’t Miss the Moment’ theme for the 2012 Season. We are certainly delighted to be this beautiful interim twinkling in MTC’s long history between the outgoing Artistic Director Simon Phillips and the incoming Brett Sheehy.

As we chose this season of plays, we also found ourselves recalling our own favourite moments of past productions, and we dearly want this season, since it will be our only season, to be rich in such take-home moments.

So we invite you to lean forward in your seats and enjoy MTC Season 2012. You wouldn’t want to miss a single moment …

Robyn Nevin

Pamela Rabe

MTC Season 2012 Programming Team

Aidan Fennessy

Season 2012 Presented by The University of Melbourne

The University of Melbourne serves the local, regional and international communities through its distinctive contribution to society in research, teaching and public engagement. It also makes a rich contribution to the cultural life of Victorians.

A vivid and tangible element of that contribution can be found in the form of Melbourne Theatre Company. Its ownership of MTC enables the University to provide the community with opportunities for reflection and conversation on the never-ending question of how we make our lives meaningful. The University is proud of its longstanding association with MTC. It commends to all the quality and vibrancy of MTC’s Season 2012.

Melbourne Theatre Company is a department of The University of Melbourne

Contents 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26

Summer of the Seventeenth Doll by Ray Lawler Tribes by Nina Raine The Seed by Kate Mulvany Red by John Logan Australia Day by Jonathan Biggins The Heretic by Richard Bean National Interest by Aidan Fennessy Queen Lear by William Shakespeare His Girl Friday adapted by John Guare Top Girls by Caryl Churchill Elling adapted by Simon Bent Music by Barry Oakley

28 Why subscribe 29 Membership 30 Subscription package prices 31 Plan your visit 32 Performance diary 38 Booking information 41 Philanthropy and corporate opportunities 42 Subscriber information 44 Thank you

Summer of the Seventeenth Doll

by Ray Lawler

An Australian classic comes home ‘a stunning success … a play so superbly true to Australian thought’ The Argus (1955)

‘a cornerstone of modern Australian drama’ The New York Times

For sixteen summers, Roo and Barney have spent their long layoff from the cane-cutting season down in Melbourne having a high old time with two Carlton barmaids, Olive and Nancy. It has been a carefree ritual that never looked like ending. But back for their seventeenth summer, the blokes find that Nancy got married and Olive has roped in a friend, Pearl, to take her place.

And for a while they all do a fair job of kidding themselves that time has not finally caught up with them.

An Australian classic. The day we premiered Ray Lawler’s groundbreaking play in 1955 marked the beginning of modern Australian drama. This story of shattered illusions has been revived many times since, but never with such imagination and heart as in Neil Armfield’s new production.

Cast includes Luke Ford, Steve Le Marquand, Robyn Nevin, Helen Thomson Director Neil Armfield, Set Designer Ralph Myers, Costume Designer Dale Ferguson, Lighting Designer Damien Cooper, Composer Alan John, Sound Designer Paul Charlier, Assistant Director Susanna Dowling

12 January to 18 February at the Arts Centre, Playhouse

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A Belvoir Production

Steve Le Marquand Colin Helen Friels Thomson

Tribes

by Nina Raine

When everyone shouts, nobody listens Australian Premiere 2011 Olivier Award nomination for Best New Play

‘the best-written, best-plotted, deepest, most daring – and funniest – new play in recent years’ The Wall Street Journal

‘fiercely intelligent, caustically funny’ The Independent

Around this family’s table, conversation is a no-holds-barred struggle for attention. Sheer mayhem. Father, mother, brother and sister fling opinions, arguments and insults around and no one pays much attention to the damage it might cause. And no one pays much attention to Billy, the youngest son, watching it all in silence, not hearing a word but getting the message.

Tribal warfare. Nina Raine’s sharp-jabbing comedy about how families communicate keeps coming at you. Director Julian Meyrick returns to MTC to direct Alison Bell in a fresh interpretation of this UK hit.

Cast includes Alison Bell, Brian Lipson, Sarah Peirse Director Julian Meyrick, Set Designer Stephen Curtis, Costume Designer Louise McCarthy, Lighting Designer Matt Scott, Composer Tim Dargaville

4 February to 14 March at the MTC Theatre, Sumner

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Warning: contains strong language

Alison Bell

Colin Friels

The Seed

by Kate Mulvany

Surviving is just half the battle ‘extraordinarily powerful and moving’ The Australian

‘a beautiful work from a burgeoning writer that shines a pure light on war’ The Daily Telegraph

Thirty years is a long time to stay away, so Danny Maloney is nervous about facing his formidable father Brian again. Danny is a Vietnam vet; Brian is Fighting Irish, a supporter of the IRA. History scarred them both, but their open wounds are all personal. Danny’s daughter Rose, a writer, will record the reunion, meet her grandfather for the first time, and learn that in family conflicts there’s no neutral position.

Family legacy. To create this stinging, witty examination of how tightly ties can bind, actor and playwright Kate Mulvany drew humour and heartbreak from her own family history. For her MTC mainstage debut, Anne-Louise Sarks directs a cast featuring Sara Gleeson and Tony Martin.

Cast includes Sara Gleeson, Tony Martin Director Anne-Louise Sarks, Set and Costume Designer Christina Smith, Lighting Designer Matt Scott

17 February to 4 April at the Arts Centre, Fairfax Studio

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Warning: contains strong language

Tony Martin Sara Gleeson

Red

by John Logan

The madness of art 2010 Tony Award for Best Play 2010 Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Play

‘verdict: brilliant’

In 1958, abstract expressionist Mark Rothko began painting his vast canvasses for the exclusive Four Seasons restaurant. It will be the culmination of his art: five sublime expanses of red – landscapes to be lost in, seas to be submerged in. Yet how can such an austere vision survive the status-seeking New York art world, or even the admiring questions of his new assistant?

The Daily Mail

‘a sizzling, intellectually thrilling two-character drama’ Chicago Tribune

‘a portrait of an angry and brilliant mind’ The New York Times

Tormented by his muse. John Logan’s Red offers a fascinating portrait of an artist who reduced his art to essentials. Having worked closely together in film, Colin Friels is reunited with director Alkinos Tsilimidos for this multi-award-winning play.

Cast includes Colin Friels Director Alkinos Tsilimidos, Set Designer Shaun Gurton, Costume Designer Jill Johanson, Lighting Designer Matt Scott, Composer Tristan Meredith

22 March to 5 May at the mtc Theatre, Sumner

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Red premiered at the Donmar Warehouse Theatre, London (3 December 2009). Michael Grandage, Artistic Director.

Original Broadway production produced by Arielle Tepper Madover, Stephanie P. McClelland, Matthew Byam Shaw, Neal Street Productions, Fox Theatricals, Ruth Hendel/Barbara Whitman, Philip Hagemann/Murray Rosenthal and the Donmar Warehouse.

Colin Friels

Colin Friels

Australia Day

by Jonathan Biggins

Australians all, let us rejoice!

World Premiere

‘Jonathan Biggins has ways of making you laugh.

Lots of them.’

Time Out

‘Australia Day. Try to remain calm. Lie completely still and then, very carefully, go and see Jonathan Biggins. It will help.’

John Clarke

‘Jonathan Biggins is a master of making the personal political and the political personal.’

Andrew Upton

When Captain Phillip raised the flag at Sydney Cove on that January day in 1788, he couldn’t know that he was instituting the most hallowed date on the Australian calendar: solemnised in speeches, citizenship ceremonies and sorry business; celebrated in sausage sizzles and piss-ups; evoked in historical re-creations and cultural confusion. Meet the Coriole Shire Australia Day Committee, a group dedicated to making the nation’s birthday run as smoothly as humanly possible.

She’ll be right! In his bright, funny swipe at our secular traditions, The Wharf Revue’s Jonathan Biggins does to shire committees what David Williamson did to football management in The Club. Familiar to shire chambers from his role in TV’s Grassroots, Geoff Morrell will be directed by Richard Cottrell.

Cast includes Valerie Bader, David James, Geoff Morrell, Alison Whyte Director Richard Cottrell, Set and Costume Designer Richard Roberts

21 April to 26 May at the Arts Centre, Playhouse

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A co-production with Sydney Theatre Company

Warning: contains strong language

Geoff Morrell

Colin Friels

The Heretic

by Richard Bean

The heat is on Australian Premiere

‘an absolute corker, funny, provocative and touching’ The Telegraph

‘a riotous comedy’ The Independent

‘thoughtful and very funny’ Financial Times

Although far from a being a climate change sceptic, Dr Diane Cassell is nevertheless a serious scientist who likes the facts to speak for themselves.

When her data contradict a key doctrine of global warming theory, her university puts pressure on her to conform. Yet she can do no other except speak her truth, even after her heresies hit the front pages and her world really heats up.

Temperatures rising. In his fleet-footed black comedy, British playwright Richard Bean gambols without a care through the climate change minefield.

Noni Hazlehurst returns to MTC to play the fearless scientist in the Australian premiere production directed by Matt Scholten.

Cast includes Noni Hazlehurst Director Matt Scholten, Set Designer Shaun Gurton, Costume Designer Esther Marie Hayes, Lighting Designer Lisa Mibus

12 May to 23 June at the MTC Theatre, Sumner

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The Heretic was commissioned by Sonia Friedman Productions, London; first stage production, Royal Court Theatre, London

Warning: contains strong language

Noni Hazlehurst

National Interest

by Aidan Fennessy

The healing truth ‘Balibo is a word and an issue that just won’t go away’ The Sydney Morning Herald

‘[Blake is] an actor of rare grace and authority’ Herald Sun

For Mrs Stewart, a Coronial Inquiry seems too little, too late. In 1975, her son Tony Stewart was a young sound recordist for an Australian news crew in Balibo, East Timor. His murder, with those of his colleagues, at the hands of the Indonesian military had been officially covered up, but everyone knows the truth. The truth is already out there. What’s the point of an inquiry now when memories are fading?

Justice denied. The fate of the Balibo Five shocked a nation in 1975 and the issues still reverberate today. This drama, commissioned by Perth’s Black Swan State Theatre Company, personalises the headlines with a story of an ordinary family haunted by history. Writer Aidan Fennessy has a personal connection with this story which will enrich his direction of Julia Blake.

Cast includes Julia Blake, Stuart Halusz Director Aidan Fennessy

6 June to 21 July at the Arts Centre, Fairfax Studio

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Julia Blake

Queen Lear

by William Shakespeare

Who is it that can tell me who I am?

‘Nevin [is] one of the grande dames of Australian theatre’ The Age

‘[the] most gutting and emotionally extreme of the tragedies’ The Independent

Abdicating her power, Lear holds a contest for her daughters with a portion of her empire as a prize. When one child refuses to play the game, the tragedy that ensues will lead Lear from power to powerlessness, from reason to madness and, ultimately, from blindness to insight.

The cut of the serpent’s tooth. In this version of Shakespeare’s darkest tragedy, Robyn Nevin plays Lear, opening a powerful perspective on a story that can still shake our humanity to its roots. Rachel McDonald directs this brand new production in her MTC debut.

Cast includes Robyn Nevin, Rohan Nicol, Genevieve Picot Director Rachel McDonald, Set and Costume Designer Tracy Grant Lord, Composer Iain Grandage

7 July to 18 August at the MTC Theatre, Sumner

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Robyn Nevin

His Girl Friday Adapted by John Guare from The Front Page

by Ben Hecht and Charles MacArthur and the Columbia Pictures film

Hold the front page!

Australian Premiere

‘a sharp homage to a Hollywood classic’ Variety

‘[a] gorgeous comic feast’ London Evening Standard

‘a theatrical spectacle’ Chicago Tribune

Ace reporter Hildy Johnson has had enough of the sleaze of the Chicago newspaper game. At midnight, she’s catching the train east where she’ll marry her fiancé, a handsome schlub with piles of dough. And if her ex-husband and editor Walter Burns thinks she’s going to change her mind, he’s got another thing coming. But that’s before the fattest, juiciest scoop of the year lands splat in her lap.

Screwball comedy. Hecht and MacArthur’s sly, cynical satire of tabloid journalism The Front Page was never better filmed than as the 1930s classic His Girl Friday. Merging the original play and the screen version, acclaimed playwright John Guare delivers the best of both wisecracking worlds.

MTC stages the Australian premiere production starring Philip Quast and Pamela Rabe.

Cast includes Philip Quast, Pamela Rabe Director Aidan Fennessy, Set and Costume Designer Tracy Grant Lord

11 August to 15 September at the Arts Centre, Playhouse

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Philip Quast Pamela Rabe

Top Girls

by Caryl Churchill

Success can be very alarming ‘a modern classic … splendidly funny and inventive’ The Telegraph

‘a witty celebration of female resilience’ The Guardian

‘strikingly original and supple imagination’ The New York Times

Marlene is out to celebrate her big promotion at work. And she’s earned it.

It’s a just reward for years of dedicated service and hard work at the Top Girls Employment Agency. Nobody knows better than Marlene that today’s career woman has to be tough as nails to compete in the masculine corporate world. And if she’s had to make sacrifices along the way, then they’ve all been worth it.

High flyer. Dancing through history, Caryl Churchill’s timeless masterpiece Top Girls asks all the difficult questions about women, career and corporate culture. We welcome director Jenny Kemp back to the Company, with an all-female cast featuring Anita Hegh and Nikki Shiels.

Cast includes Anita Hegh, Nikki Shiels Director Jenny Kemp, Set and Costume Designer Dale Ferguson, Lighting Designer Richard Vabre, Composer Elizabeth Drake

25 August to 29 September at the MTC Theatre, Sumner

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Warning: contains strong language

Nikki Shiels Anita Hegh

Elling Based on a novel by Ingvar Ambjørnsen Stage adaptation by Axel Hellstenius in collaboration with Petter Næss Translated by Nicholas Norris Adapted by Simon Bent

The oddest oddbods in Oslo ‘blissfully funny and touching’ The Guardian

‘[an] utterly delightful theatrical gem’ The Daily Telegraph

‘Gilshenan, for my money the country’s finest comic actor, brings physical grace and delicacy to Elling’ The Sydney Morning Herald

It’s a scary world out there and Elling would rather have nothing to do with it. His mother used to take care of everything, until she died, leaving him middle-aged and institutionalised. Now Social Services want him to learn some life-skills. They give him a flat, an equally hopeless flatmate called Kjell, and a big push. Like two non-swimmers out of their depth, Elling and Kjell grab hold of each other in the hope of staying afloat.

Sink or swim. This laugh-wrenching hit comedy from Simon Bent, based on the Oscar-nominated film, brings this odd couple to the stage with charm, humour and compassion. In this new production, Darren Gilshenan revives his acclaimed role as Elling, once again directed by Pamela Rabe.

Cast includes Darren Gilshenan Director Pamela Rabe, Set Designer Christina Smith, Lighting Designer Matt Scott, Sound Designer/Composer David Franzke

27 October to 8 December at the MTC Theatre, Sumner

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Warning: contains strong language

Darren Gilshenan

Music

by Barry Oakley

The lingering final chord World Premiere

‘Oakley has given some of the most enjoyable evenings on the Melbourne stage’ Max Gillies

‘Menelaus show[s] how good acting can be’ Theatrenotes

‘Piper is the sort of actor who can really make a show’

A troubled marriage, an estranged brother, a disloyal friend – Jack has made a botch of all the important relationships in his life. It’s time for him to put his affairs in order, but his strength is waning and he has neglected crucial matters for far too long. Yet, almost without realising it, those who once laughed with him and loved him – and might love him still – are tying up the loose ends of a ragged life.

Farewell symphony. Barry Oakley’s haunting and evocative Music reverberates with sympathy and humour without a false note of sentimentality.

Jane Menelaus and Richard Piper reunite to mark Barry Oakley’s return to the theatre.

The Age

Cast includes Jane Menelaus, Richard Piper

9 November to 22 December at the Arts Centre, Fairfax Studio

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Music

Richard Piper Jane Menelaus

Join us for Season 2012

SubSCribe now

THREE REASONS TO SUBSCRIBE GREAT SAVINGS Subscribers SAVE

1

Choose 12 plays and you’ll save up to 34% on single ticket prices (for two people this is a saving of up to $696)* Choose 9 plays and you’ll save up to 28% on single ticket prices (for two people this is a saving of up to $432)*

Choose 7 plays and you’ll save up to 23% on single ticket prices (for two people this is a saving of up to $280)*

PAY BY INSTALMENTS Subscribers can choose to pay by credit card in four easy instalments. * Based on current 2012 single ticket prices

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MEMBERSHIP

ADD TO YOUR SUBSCRIPTION GREAT NIGHTS AT THE THEATRE

GREAT SEATS TO SELL-OUT SHOWS

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A subscription provides the perfect excuse to catch up regularly with your family or friends and share the experience of theatre – where conversation is ignited, debates rage on and memories are made.

Subscribers have a priority booking period, so you get access to seats before they become available to the general public.

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Plan ahead, but change dates if you need to

You can fill your diary with theatre dates, safe in the knowledge that you can exchange your tickets to another night if you need to.

You won’t miss out

When our hit shows sell out and everyone else is scrambling for tickets, you’ll have your seats safely locked away.

PLUS LOADS OF OTHER EXCLUSIVE BENEFITS – Access discounted tickets for friends and family throughout the year – Save on programmes – Join us for exclusive briefing sessions with directors and creative teams – Receive Subscriber newsletters and great offers for other plays and films throughout the year

Join our community of theatre lovers by becoming a CentreStage Member and enjoy a range of benefits all year.

Supporting Membership Individual $95 (concession $75) Joint $145* (concession $115) Benefits include: – Generous discounts to dress rehearsals and Wednesday matinees – Complimentary tickets to selected performances* – Opportunities to attend special events** – Exclusive Member behind-the-scenes newsletters – Special offers from MTC partners and supporters

Leading Membership Individual $240 Joint $290* All the benefits of Supporting Membership plus: – Fast tracked subscriptions with priority processing – Be among the first to receive your 2013 Season Brochure For more information: membership@mtc.com.au 03 8688 0954 or mtc.com.au

For further information about the benefits we offer our Subscribers see page 43.

* Conditions apply. ** Fees may apply.

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1128

940

846

752

658

N/A

Full Weekend (Fri Eve, Sat Mat & Eve)

720

650

594

528

483

71

Weeknight (Mon-Thurs)

672

600

549

488

455

68

Previews

588

530

486

432

399

62

Midweek Matinee (Wed)

564

510

468

416

385

61

Weekend (Fri Eve, Sat Mat & Eve)

672

600

558

496

462

68

Weeknight (Mon-Thurs)

612

550

513

456

420

67

Previews

540

490

450

400

371

58

Midweek Matinee (Wed)

516

470

432

384

357

57

636

570

522

464

434

66

Senior/Group 10+ #

Pensioner/Student # Weekend (Fri Eve, Sat Mat & Eve) Weeknight (Mon-Thurs)

564

510

468

416

385

61

Previews

468

420

387

344

322

48

Midweek Matinee (Wed)

456

410

378

336

315

47

252

240

225

200

182

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PLAN YOUR VISIT

VENUES

GETTING TO THE THEATRE

Melbourne Theatre Company performs in two venues, located close together in Melbourne’s Arts Precinct in Southbank.

Rail

The MTC Theatre Located at 140 Southbank Boulevard, the award-winning MTC Theatre hosts mainstage productions in the 500-seat Sumner Theatre and studio performances in the 130-seat Lawler Studio.

The Arts Centre Close by at 100 St Kilda Road, the Arts Centre contains the 840-seat Playhouse, hosting our large-scale works, while more intimate plays appear at the 350-seat Fairfax Studio.

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FEDERATION SQUARE

STATION

YARRA RIVER

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Tram For routes travelling along St Kilda Road (numbers 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 16, 64, 67, 72), you can get off at the Arts Centre stop and walk to all the theatres. Route 1 to South Melbourne Beach goes down Southbank Boulevard and stops right outside the MTC Theatre.

Car parking Limited on-street parking is available along St Kilda Road, Dodds Street, Sturt Street and Grant Street. Nearby commercial car parks are marked with a on the map (left).

BARS AND DINING Script Bar & Bistro Within the MTC Theatre, Script Bar & Bistro offers breakfast, lunch, dinner and post-show supper and is open from 7.30am Monday to Friday and midday on Saturday. Book online at scriptbar.com.au, email bookings@scriptbar.com.au or call 03 8688 0880.

MTC Foyer Bars Opening two hours prior to performances, the MTC Theatre Foyer Bars are ideal for a drink or quick bite before the show or at interval. The bars showcase a variety of local wines and beers and a broad selection of Victorian food and confectionery.

additional information DODD S ST

PO W ER

D AR ILD ST K

SSOOUU TH H

Both venues are within a ten-minute walk from Flinders Street Station.

For further information, or to learn more about MTC shows, visit mtc.com.au or join the conversation online: T RY S ENT COV ST CAS DOR

31

PERFORMANCE DIARY

Summer of the Seventeenth Doll

by Ray Lawler

12 January - 18 February the Arts Centre, Playhouse Subscriber briefing Monday 9 January 2012, 6pm For sixteen summers, Roo and Barney have spent their long layoff from the cane-cutting season down in Melbourne having a high old time with two Carlton barmaids, Olive and Nancy. But now back for their seventeenth summer, has time finally caught up with them?

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

12 Jan - 8.00pmP

13 Jan - 8.00pmP

14 Jan - 2.00pmP, 8.00pmP

16 Jan - 8.00pmO

17 Jan - 6.30pm

18 Jan - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

19 Jan - 8.00pm

20 Jan - 8.00pm

21 Jan - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

23 Jan - 6.30pmF

24 Jan - 6.30pm

25 Jan - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

26 Jan - 8.00pm

27 Jan - 8.00pm

28 Jan - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

30 Jan - 6.30pm

31 Jan - 6.30pmA

01 Feb - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

02 Feb - 8.00pm

03 Feb - 8.00pm

04 Feb - 4.00pmAT, 8.30pm

06 Feb - 6.30pm

07 Feb - 6.30pm

08 Feb - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

09 Feb - 8.00pm

10 Feb - 8.00pm

11 Feb - 4.00pmC, 8.30pm

13 Feb - 6.30pm

14 Feb - 6.30pm

15 Feb - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

16 Feb - 8.00pm

17 Feb - 8.00pm

18 Feb - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

Tribes

by Nina Raine 4 February - 14 March The MTC Theatre, Sumner Subscriber briefing Monday 30 January 2012, 6pm Around this family’s table, conversation is a no-holds-barred struggle for attention. Father, mother, brother and sister fling opinions, arguments and insults around and no one pays much attention to the damage it might cause. And no one pays much attention to Billy, the youngest son, watching it all in silence, not hearing a word but getting the message.

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday 04 Feb - 8.00pmP

32

06 Feb - 8.00pmP

07 Feb - 8.00pmP

08 Feb - 8.00pmP

09 Feb - 8.00pmO

10 Feb - 8.00pm

11 Feb - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

13 Feb - 6.30pmF

14 Feb - 6.30pmA

15 Feb - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

16 Feb - 8.00pm

17 Feb - 8.00pm

18 Feb - 4.00pmAT, 8.30pm

20 Feb - 6.30pm

21 Feb - 6.30pm

22 Feb - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

23 Feb - 8.00pm

24 Feb - 8.00pm

25 Feb - 4.00pmC, 8.30pm

27 Feb - 6.30pm

28 Feb - 6.30pm

29 Feb - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

01 Mar - 8.00pm

02 Mar - 8.00pm

03 Mar - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

05 Mar - 6.30pm

06 Mar - 6.30pm

07 Mar - 1.00pmE, 8.00pm

08 Mar - 8.00pm

09 Mar - 8.00pm

10 Mar - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

12 Mar - 6.30pm

13 Mar - 6.30pm

14 Mar - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

A AUDIO DESCRIBED PERFORMANCE C CAPTIONED PERFORMANCE E EDUCATION PERFORMANCE F FORUM NIGHT

O OPENING NIGHT P PREVIEW T TACTILE TOUR

The Seed

by Kate Mulvany 17 February - 4 APRIL the Arts Centre, Fairfax Studio Subscriber briefing Monday 13 February 2012, 6pm Thirty years is a long time to stay away, so Danny Maloney is nervous about facing his formidable father Brian again. History scarred them both, but their open wounds are all personal. Danny’s daughter Rose, a writer, will record the reunion, meet her grandfather for the first time, and learn that in family conflicts there’s no neutral position.

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

17 Feb - 8.00pmP

18 Feb - 2.00pmP, 8.00pmP

20 Feb - 8.00pmP

21 Feb - 8.00pmP

22 Feb - 8.00pmO

23 Feb - 8.00pm

24 Feb - 8.00pm

25 Feb - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

27 Feb - 6.30pmF

28 Feb - 6.30pm

29 Feb - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

01 Mar - 8.00pm

02 Mar - 8.00pm

03 Mar - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

05 Mar - 6.30pm

06 Mar - 6.30pm

07 Mar - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

08 Mar - 8.00pm

09 Mar - 8.00pm

10 Mar - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

12 Mar - 6.30pm

13 Mar - 6.30pm A

14 Mar - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

15 Mar - 8.00pm

16 Mar - 8.00pm

17 Mar - 4.00pmAT, 8.30pm

19 Mar - 6.30pm

20 Mar - 6.30pm

21 Mar - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

22 Mar - 8.00pm

23 Mar - 8.00pm

24 Mar - 4.00pmC, 8.30pm

26 Mar - 6.30pm

27 Mar - 6.30pm

28 Mar - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

29 Mar - 8.00pm

30 Mar - 8.00pm

31 Mar - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

02 Apr - 6.30pm

03 Apr - 6.30pm

04 Apr - 8.00pm

Red

by John Logan 22 March - 5 May The MTC Theatre, Sumner Subscriber briefing Monday 19 March 2012, 6pm In 1958, abstract expressionist Mark Rothko began painting his vast canvasses for the exclusive Four Seasons restaurant: five sublime expanses of red – landscapes to be lost in, seas to be submerged in.

Yet how can such an austere vision survive the status-seeking New York art world, or even the admiring questions of his new assistant?

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

22 Mar - 8.00pmP

23 Mar - 8.00pmP

24 Mar - 2.00pmP, 8.00pmP

26 Mar - 8.00pmO

27 Mar - 6.30pm

28 Mar - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

29 Mar - 8.00pm

30 Mar - 8.00pm

31 Mar - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

02 Apr - 6.30pmF

03 Apr - 6.30pm

04 Apr - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

05 Apr - 8.00pm

06 Apr - No Perf

07 Apr - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

09 Apr - 6.30pm

10 Apr - 6.30pm

11 Apr - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

12 Apr - 8.00pm

13 Apr - 8.00pm

14 Apr - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

16 Apr - 6.30pm

17 Apr - 6.30pmA

18 Apr - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

19 Apr - 8.00pm

20 Apr - 8.00pm

21 Apr - 4.00pm AT, 8.30pm

23 Apr - 6.30pm

24 Apr - 6.30pm

25 Apr - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

26 Apr - 8.00pm

27 Apr - 8.00pm

28 Apr - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

30 Apr - 6.30pm

01 May - 6.30pm

02 May - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

03 May - 8.00pm

04 May - 8.00pm

05 May - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

33

PERFORMANCE DIARY

Australia Day

by Jonathan Biggins

21 April - 26 May the Arts Centre, Playhouse Subscriber briefing Monday 16 April 2012, 6pm When Captain Phillip raised the flag on that January day in 1788, he couldn’t know that he was instituting the most hallowed date on the Australian calendar: solemnised in speeches, citizenship ceremonies and sausage sizzles. Meet the Coriole Shire Australia Day Committee, a group dedicated to making the nation’s birthday run as smoothly as humanly possible.

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday 21 Apr - 8.00pmP

23 Apr - 8.00pmP

24 Apr - 8.00pmP

25 Apr - 8.00pmP

26 Apr - 8.00pmO

27 Apr - 8.00pm

28 Apr - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

30 Apr - 6.30pmF

01 May - 6.30pm

02 May - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

03 May - 8.00pm

04 May - 8.00pm

05 May - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

07 May - 6.30pm

08 May - 6.30pmA

09 May - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

10 May - 8.00pm

11 May - 8.00pm

12 May - 4.00pmAT, 8.30pm

14 May - 6.30pm

15 May - 6.30pm

16 May - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

17 May - 8.00pm

18 May - 8.00pm

19 May - 4.00pmC, 8.30pm

21 May - 6.30pm

22 May - 6.30pm

23 May - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

24 May - 8.00pm

25 May - 8.00pm

26 May - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

The Heretic

by Richard Bean

12 May - 23 June The MTC Theatre, Sumner Subscriber briefing Monday 7 May 2012, 6pm Although far from being a climate change sceptic, Dr Diane Cassell is nevertheless a serious scientist who likes the facts to speak for themselves. When her data contradict a key doctrine of global warming theory, her university puts pressure on her to conform. Yet she can do no other except speak her truth, even after her heresies hit the front pages.

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday 12 May - 8.00pmP

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14 May - 8.00pmP

15 May - 8.00pmP

16 May - 8.00pmP

17 May - 8.00pmO

18 May - 8.00pm

19 May - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

21 May - 6.30pmF

22 May - 6.30pm

23 May - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

24 May - 8.00pm

25 May - 8.00pm

26 May - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

28 May - 6.30pm

29 May - 6.30pm

30 May - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

31 May - 8.00pm

01 Jun - 8.00pm

02 Jun - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

04 Jun - 6.30pm

05 Jun - 6.30pmA

06 Jun - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

07 Jun - 8.00pm

08 Jun - 8.00pm

09 Jun - 4.00pmAT, 8.30pm

11 Jun - 6.30pm

12 Jun - 6.30pm

13 Jun - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

14 Jun - 8.00pm

15 Jun - 8.00pm

16 Jun - 4.00pmC, 8.30pm

18 Jun - 6.30pm

19 Jun - 6.30pm

20 Jun - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

21 Jun - 8.00pm

22 Jun - 8.00pm

23 Jun - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

A AUDIO DESCRIBED PERFORMANCE C CAPTIONED PERFORMANCE E EDUCATION PERFORMANCE F FORUM NIGHT

O OPENING NIGHT P PREVIEW T TACTILE TOUR

National Interest

by Aidan Fennessy

6 June - 21 July the Arts Centre, Fairfax Studio Subscriber briefing Monday 4 June 2012, 6pm For Mrs Stewart, a Coronial Inquiry seems too little, too late. In 1975, her son Tony Stewart was a young sound recordist for an Australian news crew in Balibo, East Timor. His murder, with those of his colleagues, at the hands of the Indonesian military had been officially covered up, but everyone knows the truth.

The truth is already out there. What’s the point of an inquiry now when memories are fading?

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

06 Jun - 8.00pmP

07 Jun - 8.00pmP

08 Jun - 8.00pmP

09 Jun - 2.00pmP, 8.00pmP

11 Jun - 8.00pmO

12 Jun - 6.30pm

13 Jun - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

14 Jun - 8.00pm

15 Jun - 8.00pm

16 Jun - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

18 Jun - 6.30pmF

19 Jun - 6.30pm

20 Jun - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

21 Jun - 8.00pm

22 Jun - 8.00pm

23 Jun - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

25 Jun - 6.30pm

26 Jun - 6.30pm

27 Jun - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

28 Jun - 8.00pm

29 Jun - 8.00pm

30 Jun - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

02 Jul - 6.30pm

03 Jul - 6.30pmA

04 Jul - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

05 Jul - 8.00pm

06 Jul - 8.00pm

07 Jul - 4.00pmAT, 8.30pm

09 Jul - 6.30pm

10 Jul - 6.30pm

11 Jul - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

12 Jul - 8.00pm

13 Jul - 8.00pm

14 Jul - 4.00pmC, 8.30pm

16 Jul - 6.30pm

17 Jul - 6.30pm

18 Jul - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

19 Jul - 8.00pm

20 Jul - 8.00pm

21 Jul - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

Queen Lear

By William Shakespeare 7 July - 18 August The MTC Theatre, Sumner Subscriber briefing Monday 2 July 2012, 6pm Abdicating her power, Lear holds a contest for her daughters with a portion of her empire as a prize.

When one child refuses to play the game, the tragedy that ensues will lead Lear from power to powerlessness, from reason to madness and, ultimately, from blindness to insight.

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday 07 Jul - 8.00pmP

09 Jul - 8.00pmP

10 Jul - 8.00pmP

11 Jul - 8.00pmP

12 Jul - 8.00pmO

13 Jul - 8.00pm

14 Jul - 2.00pm, 8.00pm

16 Jul - 6.30pmF

17 Jul - 6.30pm

18 Jul - 8.00pm

19 Jul - 8.00pm

20 Jul - 8.00pm

21 Jul - 2.00pm, 8.00pm

23 Jul - 6.30pm

24 Jul - 6.30pm

25 Jul - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

26 Jul - 8.00pm

27 Jul - 8.00pm

28 Jul - 8.00pm

30 Jul - 6.30pm

31 July - 6.30pmA

01 Aug - 1.00pmE

02 Aug - 8.00pm

03 Aug - 8.00pm

04 Aug - 2.00pmAT, 8.00pm

06 Aug - 6.30pm

07 Aug - 6.30pm

08 Aug - 1.00pm

09 Aug - 8.00pm

10 Aug - 8.00pm

11 Aug - 2.00pm, 8.00pm

13 Aug - 6.30pm

14 Aug - 6.30pm

15 Aug - 1.00pm

16 Aug - 8.00pm

17 Aug - 8.00pm

18 Aug - 2.00pm, 8.00pm

35

PERFORMANCE DIARY

His Girl Friday

Adapted by John Guare 11 August - 15 September the Arts Centre, Playhouse Subscriber briefing Monday 6 August 2012, 6pm Ace reporter HildyJohnson has had enough of the sleaze of the Chicago newspaper game. At midnight, she’s catching the train east where she’ll marry her fiancé. And if her ex-husband and editor Walter Burns thinks she’s going to change her mind, he’s got another thing coming. But that’s before the fattest, juiciest scoop of the year lands splat in her lap.

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday 11 Aug - 8.00pmP

13 Aug - 8.00pmP

14 Aug - 8.00pmP

15 Aug - 8.00pmP

16 Aug - 8.00pmO

17 Aug - 8.00pm

20 Aug - 6.30pmF

21 Aug - 6.30pm

22 Aug - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

23 Aug - 8.00pm

24 Aug - 8.00pm

18 Aug - 4.00pm, 8.30pm 25 Aug - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

27 Aug - 6.30pm

28 Aug - 6.30pmA

29 Aug - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

30 Aug - 8.00pm

31 Aug - 8.00pm

01 Sep - 4.00pmAT, 8.30pm

03 Sep - 6.30pm

04 Sep - 6.30pm

05 Sep - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

06 Sep - 8.00pm

07 Sep - 8.00pm

08 Sep - 4.00pmC, 8.30pm

10 Sep - 6.30pm

11 Sep - 6.30pm

12 Sep - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

13 Sep - 8.00pm

14 Sep - 8.00pm

15 Sep - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

Top Girls

by Caryl Churchill 25 August - 29 SEPTEMber The MTC Theatre, Sumner Subscriber briefing Monday 20 August 2012, 6pm Marlene is out to celebrate her big promotion at work. And she’s earned it. Nobody knows better than Marlene that today’s career woman has to be tough as nails to compete in the masculine corporate world. And if she’s had to make sacrifices along the way, then they’ve all been worth it.

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday 25 Aug - 8.00pmP

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27 Aug - 8.00pmP

28 Aug - 8.00pmP

29 Aug - 8.00pmP

30 Aug - 8.00pmO

31 Aug - 8.00pm

01 Sep - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

03 Sep - 6.30pmF

04 Sep - 6.30pm

05 Sep - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

06 Sep - 8.00pm

07 Sep - 8.00pm

08 Sep - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

10 Sep - 6.30pm

11 Sep - 6.30pmA

12 Sep - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

13 Sep - 8.00pm

14 Sep - 8.00pm

15 Sep - 4.00pmAT, 8.30pm

17 Sep - 6.30pm

18 Sep - 6.30pm

19 Sep - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

20 Sep - 8.00pm

21 Sep - 8.00pm

22 Sep - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

24 Sep - 6.30pm

25 Sep - 6.30pm

26 Sep - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

27 Sep - 8.00pm

28 Sep - 8.00pm

29 Sep - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

A AUDIO DESCRIBED PERFORMANCE C CAPTIONED PERFORMANCE E EDUCATION PERFORMANCE F FORUM NIGHT

O OPENING NIGHT P PREVIEW T TACTILE TOUR

Elling

Adapted by Simon Bent 27 October - 8 December The MTC Theatre, Sumner Subscriber briefing Monday 22 October 2012, 6pm It’s a scary world out there and Elling would rather have nothing to do with it. Now Social Services want him to learn some life-skills. They give him a flat, an equally hopeless flatmate called Kjell, and a big push. Like two non-swimmers out of their depth, Elling and Kjell grab hold of each other in the hope of staying afloat.

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday 27 Oct - 8.00pmP

29 Oct - 8.00pmP

30 Oct - 8.00pmP

31 Oct - 8.00pmP

01 Nov - 8.00pmO

02 Nov - 8.00pm

03 Nov - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

05 Nov - 6.30pmF

06 Nov - 6.30pm

07 Nov - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

08 Nov - 8.00pm

09 Nov - 8.00pm

10 Nov - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

12 Nov - 6.30pm

13 Nov - 6.30pm

14 Nov - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

15 Nov - 8.00pm

16 Nov - 8.00pm

17 Nov - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

19 Nov - 6.30pm

20 Nov - 6.30pmA

21 Nov - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

22 Nov - 8.00pm

23 Nov - 8.00pm

24 Nov - 4.00pmAT, 8.30pm

26 Nov - 6.30pm

27 Nov - 6.30pm

28 Nov - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

29 Nov - 8.00pm

30 Nov - 8.00pm

01 Dec - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

03 Dec - 6.30pm

04 Dec - 6.30pm

05 Dec - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

06 Dec - 8.00pm

07 Dec - 8.00pm

08 Dec - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

Music

by Barry Oakley 9 November - 22 December the Arts Centre, Fairfax Studio Subscriber briefing Monday 5 November 2012, 6pm A troubled marriage, an estranged brother, a disloyal friend – Jack has made a botch of all the important relationships in his life. It’s time for him to put his affairs in order, but his strength is waning. Yet, almost without realising it, those who once laughed with him and loved him are tying up the loose ends of a ragged life.

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

09 Nov - 8.00pmP

10 Nov - 2.00pmP, 8.00pmP

12 Nov - 8.00pmP

13 Nov - 8.00pmP

14 Nov - 8.00pmO

15 Nov - 8.00pm

16 Nov - 8.00pm

17 Nov - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

19 Nov - 6.30pmF

20 Nov - 6.30pm

21 Nov - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

22 Nov - 8.00pm

23 Nov - 8.00pm

24 Nov - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

26 Nov - 6.30pm

27 Nov - 6.30pmA

28 Nov - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

29 Nov - 8.00pm

30 Nov - 8.00pm

01 Dec - 4.00pmAT, 8.30pm

03 Dec - 6.30pm

04 Dec - 6.30pm

05 Dec - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

06 Dec - 8.00pm

07 Dec - 8.00pm

08 Dec - 4.00pmC, 8.30pm

10 Dec - 6.30pm

11 Dec - 6.30pm

12 Dec - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

13 Dec - 8.00pm

14 Dec - 8.00pm

15 Dec - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

17 Dec - 6.30pm

18 Dec - 6.30pm

19 Dec - 1.00pm, 8.00pm

20 Dec - 8.00pm

21 Dec - 8.00pm

22 Dec - 4.00pm, 8.30pm

37

BOOKING INFORMATION

HOW TO BOOK YOUR SUBSCRIPTION ONLINE

SEND IN YOUR FORM

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

Visit mtc.com.au and follow the ‘subscribe now’ buttons.

Fill in your booking form and send to:

A confirmation card or email will be sent to the Head Booker within five working days of receipt of your completed booking form.

New to MTC? Simply create a new account by following the prompts.

Registered online before?

Please use your existing account (or access our ‘forgot password’ function) so we can recognise you for priority processing.

MTC Subscriptions PO Box 918 South Melbourne VIC 3205 You are also welcome to drop off your completed booking form at the MTC Theatre Box Office (140 Southbank Boulevard, Southbank).

Once your booking is processed, your tickets will be sent to the Head Booker (for more information about Head Bookers see page 42).

Please note telephone and fax bookings cannot be accepted.

DATES TO NOTE 27 SEPTEMBER 2011

7 NOVEMBER 2011

6 MARCH 2012

Bookings open at 9pm.

Processing of new Subscriber bookings commences.

Tickets for all remaining 2012 Season productions go on sale to the general public.

5 OCTOBER 2011 Exclusive booking period for renewing 12-Play Subscribers closes (see page 43).

28 OCTOBER 2011 Exclusive booking period for renewing Subscribers closes.

6 DECEMBER 2011 Single tickets for Summer of the Seventeenth Doll, Tribes and The Seed go on sale to the general public.

Please note: applications will be processed in order of receipt within allocated booking periods, with the exception of Leading CentreStage Members who receive priority processing, and Patrons who receive preferential seating.

14 february 2012 Single tickets for Red go on sale to the general public.

For more information or assistance, please contact us on 03 8688 0800 during business hours, or visit mtc.com.au.

38

JOIN US ONLINE

Help us keep in touch with you When you book your subscription, remember to provide us with as much contact information as possible (both for yourself and the people you subscribe with) so we can keep you in the loop with important information.

When you provide your email address, we can send you our monthly Subscriber e-newsletter filled with backstage news, extension announcements, special offers and more. Likewise, when you give us your mobile number we can quickly text you with any unforeseen changes to your performances.

If you already have an MTC account, you can update your contact details easily online at mtc.com.au. Simply log in, and click ‘My Account’ in the top right hand side of the screen.

Become a part of our online community If you want daily news from behind the scenes at MTC HQ – including insights from the rehearsal rooms, sneak peeks from the wardrobe and props departments, and special teaser videos for upcoming productions – be sure to join us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with cast members and creatives, enter exclusive competitions, and share your feedback with other theatre lovers.

Head to: f acebook.com/ melbournetheatrecompany t witter.com/ melbtheatreco outube.com/ y melbtheatreco

39

support mtc

Your moment to make a difference For over fifteen years MTC has played an integral role in my life. As a longstanding Patron and more recently as Chairman, I have come to understand and appreciate the important role financial assistance from the private sector plays in the day-to-day running of a state theatre company.

As I am sure you are aware, the operation of a world class theatre company is not without its financial challenges. Much of the revenue generated is reinvested into our mainstage season – in high quality

40

productions, in state-of-the-art technology and in maintaining and improving the facilities and services of our magnificent MTC Theatre – all of which so many of you have come to love and enjoy.

Without the support of our public, it would be impossible for MTC to develop new works, champion emerging artists and playwrights and provide theatre to all Victorians, including the young, the less fortunate and those with special needs.

So I invite you to seize the moment to make a difference and join me as a Donor, and invest in the future of MTC and Australian theatre. Remember all donations are tax-deductible and make a real difference.

Derek Young Chairman, MTC Board of Management

PHILANTHROPY

CORPORATE OPPORTUNITIES

Patrons

Partnerships

Make a Patron donation and play a vital role in the artistic and cultural life of our community. Join Melbourne’s most passionate theatre lovers, catch up with friends and make new ones at exclusive Patron events.

Align your organisation with one of Australia’s major performing arts companies and leverage from a high-profile and uncluttered marketing environment. Entertain clients at private events before or after the show with our actors and artistic teams. Contribute to employer of choice initiatives by providing staff with privileged access. Create a unique platform to profile your corporate social responsibility initiatives.

All donations of $750 and above are recognised under MTC’s Patrons Program and are fully tax-deductible.

In appreciation of their vital support, our Patrons enjoy: – Access to the best seats in the house – Flexible ticketing arrangements via a personalised booking service – Exclusive encounters with our actors and artistic teams – Acknowledgement in key MTC publications

Bequests For more than fifty years MTC has benefited from the support of many generous and passionate individuals.

Our audiences have played an important part in our history and have enjoyed a lifetime of theatrical excellence.

If your love of the theatre inspires you to be part of our history, ensure future generations have the same opportunity by remembering MTC in your will. Be reassured that your generosity will continue to support young artists and audiences for the next fifty years.

For more information: Rupert Sherwood r.sherwood@mtc.com.au 03 8688 0953 or visit mtc.com.au

Our experienced and dedicated development team will work with you to achieve a range of brand, hospitality and stakeholder objectives.

Entertaining Access entertainment opportunities that you won’t find elsewhere and engage key clients with a unique theatrical experience at one of our outstanding venues. Let us tailor a package to suit your hospitality requirements and budget.

MTC will work with you to develop and host memorable customer or stakeholder events.

Membership Join like-minded theatre lovers who share your passion and professional interests by accessing our all-inclusive, fully coordinated membership package. Our corporate membership program is ideal for small businesses and provides you and your clients with evenings at the theatre and networking opportunities at exclusive hospitality events. Invite your guests, send us their names and we will do the rest.

For more information: Paul Shea p.shea@mtc.com.au 03 8688 0951 or visit mtc.com.au

41

SUBSCRIBER INFORMATION

TERMS AND CONDITIONS # Concessions

†† Opening Night package

Concessions must be valid at the time of booking. Refunds are not available if you become eligible for a concession after you have booked. Pensioners and Seniors must provide their card number when booking. Under 30s (29 and under) must include documentation indicating proof of age, such as a driver’s licence. Full-time students must attach documentation of current full-time enrolment.

A limited number of Opening Night packages are available through mail bookings. They require a minimum of seven Opening Night performances, but can be combined with non-Opening Night performances (which will be charged at the usual subscription rate).

Opening Night tickets can be exchanged; however any price difference is non-refundable. Additional tickets are not available for Opening Nights.

Group Subscriptions

Refunds

Group subscriptions are available for a minimum of 10 people booking for the same performance, and are available for mail bookings only. All tickets must be purchased at the same time to qualify for the discount. A group of 10 can include concessions at the appropriate package price with adults at the group price.

Tickets cannot be refunded unless a performance is cancelled. See the Code of Practice for the Ticketing of Live Performance in Australia for conditions (liveperformance.com.au).

Head Booker The Head Booker is the first person listed on the booking form (and on the topmost form when multiple forms are submitted together) and is the point of contact for MTC in case of seating reallocation or other contingencies. As MTC takes credit card fraud seriously, the Head Booker is responsible for giving correct contact and payment information at the time of booking.

42

For full terms and conditions including information about adult themes and strong language, smoking in plays, babies at performances, lost tickets and school bookings, visit mtc.com.au.

TICKET EXCHANGES MTC Subscribers enjoy the flexibility to exchange tickets.

12-Play Subscribers receive three free exchange vouchers.

7-10 Play Subscribers receive one free exchange voucher.

Additional exchanges can be made for an exchange fee of $4.40 per ticket.

HOW TO EXCHANGE Exchanges are available from single ticket on sale dates (see page 38) subject to availability.

They can be made either in person at the MTC Theatre Box Office or by mail to 140 Southbank Boulevard, Southbank 3006.

For full exchange terms and conditions (including any conditions or upgrade fees that may apply) visit mtc.com.au.

Subscriber benefits In addition to great savings and priority seating, MTC Subscribers receive other great benefits, including:

‡ Additional tickets Subscribers who purchase a 7-12 play package may purchase additional tickets to any show in Season 2012 for family and friends at discounted prices. These special prices are only guaranteed at the time of purchasing your subscription and may change for purchases made at a later date.

Forum nights Following selected performances, you can hear the cast, creative team and director discuss the show. Please note, these evenings are heavily booked so get in early.

MTC Forum Nights are marked F in the Performance Diary in this brochure.

Instalment payments

12-Play Subscribers

Subscribers paying by credit card may divide their total payment into four easy instalments. The first is payable when you subscribe, with the balance due on 12 January, 12 April and 12 June 2012.

The administration fee for this service is a one-off charge of $13 per card used.

2011 12-Play Subscribers will receive exclusive priority processing until 5 October in which to renew their 12-Play subscription for 2012. 2012 12-Play Subscribers will receive this benefit when renewing their 12-Play package (or the largest play package on offer) for Season 2013.

Previews

newsletters

Previews, marked P on the Performance Diary, are the exciting first performances leading up to Opening Night. Note that the directors may halt the performance for technical reasons. Special discounted subscription prices apply.

MTC’s quarterly print newsletter Scenes, and monthly e-newsletter provide you with behind-the-scenes information and special Subscriber offers.

Programmes Subscribers can pre-purchase discounted programme vouchers for shows at the time of booking a subscription.

Our briefings give you the opportunity to meet with the creative team and participate in a Q&A session. There is no need to book, just check the Performance Diary for dates and times and turn up at the theatre.

Captioning and FM hearing system

Wheelchair and mobility access

MTC provides captioning for selected productions. Dates are marked C in the Performance Diary. Additionally, an FM hearing system is available for all mainstage performances. Audience members receive either a headset or neck loop enabling use of a hearing aid.

For more information contact the MTC Theatre on 03 8688 0800.

Wheelchair access and seating that allows more room for the use of mobility aids is available in all theatres. Please make your requirements known when booking.

Subscriber briefings

Accessibility MTC is committed to making performances accessible to the widest possible audience.

Audio description and tactile tours Vision Australia provides audio description for selected performances – simply collect a free small receiver upon arrival at the theatre. MTC also offers tactile tours of the stage prior to certain shows. Dates are marked A and T in the Performance Diary.

Call Vision Australia on 03 9864 9384 for more information.

Arts Access Arts Access aims to increase access to the arts for people who are disadvantaged or have a disability. Voice: 03 9699 8299; TTY: 03 9699 7636, artsaccess.com.au.

43

THANK YOU

Melbourne Theatre Company is a department of The University of Melbourne.

Melbourne Theatre Company is assisted by the Commonwealth Government through the Australia Council, its arts funding and advisory body, and by the State Government of Victoria through Arts Victoria.

MTC WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE FOLLOWING ORGANISATIONS FOR THEIR GENEROUS SUPPORT

PHILANTHROPIC TRUSTS AND FOUNDATIONS The Michael and Andrew Buxton Foundation The Joan and Peter Clemenger Trust The Cybec Foundation Marshall Day Acoustics (Denis Irving Scholarship)

The Harold Mitchell Foundation The Myer Foundation Sidney Myer Fund (Geoffrey Cohen AM Scholarship)

MTC is a member of Live Performance Australia and the Australian Major Performing Arts Group.

Details in this brochure are correct at the time of publication. MTC reserves the right to add, withdraw and substitute artists and vary the program should the need arise.

Editor: Vanessa Rowsthorn. Concept: DDB Advertising. Art Direction: Lydia Baic. Design: Helena Turinski, Kate Forehan. Image Design Consultant: Fiona Crombie.

Copy: Paul Galloway. Photoshoot Management: Lisa Scicluna. Photography: Earl Carter, Marcel Aucar.

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Don’t miss the moment

Comments from MTC Subscribers

Subscription enquiries PO Box 918, South Melbourne VIC 3205 Phone: 03 8688 0800 Email: mtcticketing@mtc.com.au

General enquirIes 252 Sturt Street, Southbank VIC 3006 Phone: 03 8688 0900 Email: info@mtc.com.au

mtc.com.au