Black Comedy The Anniversary for Javeenbah Theatre

British black comedy The Anniversary will take to the stage in March at Javeenbah Theatre on Queensland’s Gold Coast, promising laughs and gasps at one of the most wicked characters in modern theatre.

The play, by Bill McIlwraith, follows the story of ‘Mum’ who keeps a tight hold on all three of her sons with gifts, threats and ruthless exploitation of their weaknesses. But as the family is unwillingly brought together to celebrate Mum's wedding anniversary (regardless of deceased Dad), revolt is in the air.

One son gathers the courage to tell Mum he is moving to Canada; another breaks the news of his impending marriage. However, we soon find out that Mum is no pushover and is ready to fight back with every weapon in her considerable armory.

Director and local theatre actress Dawn China says The Anniversary – set in the 1960’s - is both funny and outrageous.


“The character of Mum is one of the most memorable villains in modern theatre,” she said.

“The part is a challenge for any actress – and Virginia Leaver, who plays Mum, has more than stepped up to the task. She is not a nice Mum; she is a manipulative woman who gets pleasure from driving her sons to their limit.

“But it’s the sheer ease of Mum’s rudeness that is hilarious, especially when she delivers such biting lines as ‘Would you mind sitting further away, Shirley – I can’t stand B. O’.

“The play is witty, sharp and cringe-worthy at times – but most of all it’s a lot of fun.

“Audiences may even see bits and pieces of their own mothers, or mothers-in-law, in the characters which will provide plenty of laughs.

“We’ve been blessed with a very talented cast who’ve been rehearsing intensively since before Christmas. It will be a great production and we look forward to taking to the stage in March,” she said.

‘The Anniversary’ runs at Javeenbah Theatre from Friday 22nd March to Saturday 6th April 2013. Bookings 5596 0300 or www.javeenbah.org.au

Cast

Mum: Virginia Leaver

Henry: Dennis Watkins

Terry: Dean Mayer

Karen: Naomi Thompson

Tom: Hayden Bech

Shirley: Chantelle Wright

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