WORLD PREMIERE
In this world premiere production, David Williamson cements his place as one of Australia’s most masterful storytellers with a brand new social comedy about legacy, entitlement and making good on past relationships.
Overview
When it comes to business Bruce knows what to do. You’ve got to out-bite the sharks and twist a good deal before you get screwed. But as the years go by and his legacy starts to loom, his thoughts turn to his exasperated daughter, her social climbing husband and his granddaughter, Rachel, who unfortunately takes after him. Perhaps it’s time to make amends. Can Bruce solve his family issues without giving away a long-held secret?
Reviews
★★★ "Williamson, our most successful and prolific playwright, sets up the trigger from the opening scene...Director Nadia Tass draws out the humour while keeping the bigger issues in focus.” Sydney Morning Herald
“What transpires between the three generations is often acutely and painfully accurate as Rachel’s teen entitlement and smouldering rage crash into and roll over the jelly-like ineptitude of her parents...SORTING OUT RACHEL has a lot to offer and is often funny, full of insight and some uncomfortable home truths for comfortable Australians.” Stagenoise
"The play is peppered with humour ... crucial matters are explored with humanity and sanguinity." The Culture Concept
“Deceptively domestic. A funny, moving and modern take on familial matters. Yet big issues insert themselves into the viewing…The play has much to say about disparity and separation, speaking discreetly and quietly from a distant room on privilege, legacy and belonging.” Sydney Arts Guide
"There is never a dull moment as the characters challenge each other and the audience. The award winning director Nadia Tass has created a theatrical experience that both entertains and incites discussion. John Howard gives an outstanding performance as the alpha male who uses the carrot of inheritance and the threat of disinheritance to manipulate change. Jenna Owen captures the difficult teenager Rachel perfectly, as she manipulates her mother and father, but not her grandfather to get her own way. Chenoa Deemal, Glenn Hazeldine and Natalie Saleeba all give professional performances that totally engages the audience. Did I love this play? Yes!" Susanne Gervay
"So, with SORTING OUT RACHEL, has Williamson lived up to the towering expectation established by his reputation? His collaboration with Tass as director has lifted the bar even higher...SORTING OUT RACHEL at the Ensemble Theatre is well worth putting on your "must see” list.” Sydney Chic
"The cast is exceptional and together they create an absorbing drama, beneath which is a clear subtext about the ever-evolving issue of Australian identity...Thumbs up!" Oz Baby Boomers
Cast & Creatives
David Williamson
Playwright
Nadia Tass
Director
Chenoa Deemal
Cast - Tess
Glenn Hazeldine
Cast - Craig
John Howard
Cast - Bruce
Jenna Owen
Cast - Rachel
Natalie Saleeba
Cast - Julie
Tobhiyah Stone Feller
Set & Costume Designer
Christopher Page
Lighting and AV Designer
Daniel Nixon
Sound Designer
Ruth Horsfall
Stage Manager
Alana Canceri
Wardrobe Coordinator