Power Play, a new musical being developed in Bellingen, raises some basic questions about the way politics are conducted in our country and who ultimately controls the political process.
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The events surrounding the rise and fall of Julia Gillard form the backdrop for the play, which uses satire and parody to examine the reality behind the façade of big party politics and electoral populism. This hard-hitting comedy pulls no punches as it explores the influence of mass media, big business and the party machines on the way the electoral process is manipulated to serve the interests of a few.
A bitter Tony Abbott vows vengeance for his narrow defeat at the hands of the Independents; in a leafy moonlit garden two mining tycoons sing in praise of their mutual love; an ousted Julia Gillard reflects sombrely on the fruits of her experience; and through it all, Harlequin cavorts and whirls, reminding us of the unpredictability of destiny and the predictability of history.
Devised by a small group of local musicians, artists and performers, Power Play asks the audience to consider some pertinent questions: How do our leaders stack up in terms of qualities such as integrity, compassion and honesty, how much are they guided by a genuine interest in the welfare of the people and the country.
The play is designed to stimulate public debate, and whether you agree or disagree with its conclusions, you won’t walk away from the performance without something to think about.
The play opens at the Memorial Hall, Bellingen on Friday, November 14, with evening performances scheduled over the weekends of November 14-15 and 21-22. Tickets are available online at www.trybooking.com/106106 or from the Alternatives Bookshop, 105 Hyde St, Bellingen for $20 ($15 concession).
