Returning by popular demand after a sold out 2018 season, theatre legends John Bell and John Gaden unite in this unmissable WWII thriller about Nazi Germany’s plot to destroy Paris.

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Overview

RETURN SEASON

In 1944 at the Hôtel Meurice, the Swedish diplomat Raoul Nordling and the German General, Dietrich von Choltitz meet in a life and death situation for the city of Paris.

On abandoning Paris, Hitler has ordered its destruction. Raoul has one night to persuade the General to leave the landmark city standing. The many twists and turns of their negotiations play out in this highly entertaining thriller by Cyril Gély.

Returning to the Ensemble Theatre stage after the unprecedented success of our sold out 2018 season, theatre legends John Bell and John Gaden reunite in this unmissable production.

“The power of DIPLOMACY is a reminder of the fragility of a culture that was so nearly forever lost.”
Sydney Morning Herald

Ticket Prices

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Prices correct at the time of publication and subject to change without notice. Exact prices will be displayed with seat selection.

SINGLE TICKET PRICESPreviews & weekday matineesEvenings & weekend matinees
Adult$73$78
Seniors$70$75
Pensioners$66$71
Under 30s & Full-time students$38$43
MEAA members$43$43
Groups 10-19$70$75
Groups 20+$66$71
School groups$25$25
Reviews

“Gaden is nimble as the witty, wily, urbane Nordling, drawing humour and humanity from the unorthodox consul…The power of Diplomacy is a reminder of the fragility of a culture that was so nearly forever lost.” The Sydney Morning Herald

“Watch two veterans of the Australian Theatre, John Bell and John Gaden, duelling in character with a smooth and well-honed confidence and chemistry, fitting each other's character contrasting rhythms and musicalities with expert precision and respectful energies” Kevin Jackson’s Theatre Diary

“John Bell and John Gaden create magic on the stage together...It’s not often that such a stimulating and well-crafted play comes along.” Sydney Arts Guide

"Audiences won’t be disappointed by Bell and Gaden, who both turn in terrific performances and bounce off each other beautifully." Limelight Magazine

"Astonishingly powerful... This perfectly formed play and its players is the stuff that theatres are built for...A defining moment in the theatre." Sydney Scoop

”Any play that showcases the talents of John Bell … and John Gaden is a must-see…Diplomacy is essentially a two-hander performed by two powerhouses of Australian theatre” Sydney Chic

“Bell and Gaden provide formidable and … compelling performances” Oz Baby Boomers

"The [John] Gaden charm is irresistible " Stage Noise

Cast & Creatives
Cyril Gély

Cyril Gély

Playwright

Julie Rose

Julie Rose

Translation and Adaptation

John Bell

John Bell

Director | Cast - Dietrich von Choltitz

Anna Volska

Anna Volska

Assistant Director

John Gaden

John Gaden

Cast - Raoul Nordling

Genevieve Lemon

Genevieve Lemon

Frau Meyer

James Lugton

James Lugton

Cast - Werner Ebernach

Joseph Raggatt

Joseph Raggatt

Cast - Hans Brensdorf

Michael Scott-Mitchell

Michael Scott-Mitchell

Set Designer

Genevieve Graham

Genevieve Graham

Costume Designer

Matt Cox

Matt Cox

Lighting Designer

Nate Edmondson

Nate Edmondson

Composer and Sound Designer

Erin Shaw

Erin Shaw

Stage Manager

Renata Beslik

Renata Beslik

Costume Supervisor

PHOTOS
PROGRAM

Our downloadable program is filled to the brim with DIPLOMACY info! Check out the writer’s note from Cyril Gély, synopsis, photos and more.

DOWNLOAD THE PROGRAM (PDF)