‘Compelling and must-see theatre' - Melbourne Observer.
MELBOURNE
April 19 - 23
Courthouse Theatre
349 Drummond Street, Carlton
Performed as part of
A University Office, 1962: homosexuality is illegal.
Junior lecturer, William O’Halloran,
has been dismissed from his probationary position.
His secret is out.
As he packs up his beloved belongings,
William recalls the defining decisions
that have lead him to this moment.
But time is ticking away.
His wife Lola is due to arrive any minute.
And the curtain is soon to rise
on the student union production of Romeo and Juliet.
Shakespeare’s tale of star-crossed lovers isn’t the only
forbidden love story on campus.
And the leading man knows this all too well…
‘A masterful performance’ - Stage Whispers.
‘The Will To Be’ is an exploration of Australia’s queer history, societal shame, and a defiant cry to speak truth to power.
Duration: 55 minutes
Content Warning: sexual references, not suitable for persons under 15 years of age.
Photo courtesy of Sare Clarke Photography
*Best Theatre*
‘Beautifully crafted…exceptionally performed’ - Weekend Notes.
Written, Co-Produced and Performed by Mark Salvestro
Co-Produced by BCauseARTS
Sound Design by Steve Carnell
Set Design by Carmody Nicol
Costume Design by Oliver Ross
Lighting Design by Lachlan McLean
Stage Managed by April Erskine
Photography by Sare Clarke
Co-Produced by
Sponsored by
Special thanks to Phil Evans and the Howard Fine Acting Studio Australia, Acting Coaches Sarah Hallam, Phoebe Anne Taylor (and Graphic Designer!), Emma Louise Pursey and Danielle Cresp, Dramaturgy Consultant Mark Pritchard, Promo Trailer team: William Lee, Scott Pope, Harrison Byrne and Andy Berry-Brown, The Butterfly Club, The Bakehouse Theatre, Melbourne Fringe, Adelaide Fringe, Creative Partnerships Australia, and the 90 donors of the Australian Cultural Fund campaign for the 2020 Adelaide Fringe season.