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About The Show – Romeo & Juliet/Macbeth Double Bill

Romeo & Juliet/Macbeth Double Bill

G’day everyone! Today, we’re thrilled to have a yarn with the lead actor from the imaginative Romeo & Juliet/Macbeth Double Bill. These unique 90-minute musical adaptations shed a fresh light on the Bard’s timeless tales. Hang tight as we dive into this creative fusion and hear all about the joys and challenges of bringing such an intriguing performance to life.

About Romeo & Juliet/Macbeth Double Bill

What is this Production about?

This production is a double bill of 90-minute musical versions of Romeo and Juliet and Macbeth, with Australasian Indie-Folk and Bluegrass/Americana music, respectively. Music, Mischief, and Magic—It’s Shakespeare like you’ve never seen it.

What character are you playing, and what can you share with us about them?

The cast for both shows is the same, so all actors play roles across both shows. In this iteration of these shows, I play Romeo and Lady Macbeth. It’s been a lot of fun revisiting Romeo after a year away from the show, rediscovering all the little intricacies that made that character feel so special to me. Playing a gender-swapped Lady Macbeth was a daunting challenge, but one that has been so rewarding.

What’s challenging about bringing this script to life?

Bringing Shakespeare into a more modern context without losing what makes it such a timeless and special sort of show is always a challenge, especially when you throw musical elements into the mix, but I think we handle the material with just the right amount of revelry and rebellion all at once.

Ollie Howlett
Ollie Howlett
Ollie Howlett
Ollie Howlett

What sort of person is going to love this show?

We like to think that our shows are for everyone, whether you like the bard’s work or not, but it is always a particularly special moment when someone who before coming along would have said they categorically hated Shakespeare tells us after the show that they finally feel like they get why people love his works so much. So I would say, in particular, people who don’t like Shakespeare will love our Shakespeare.

Call someone out by name: who must come see this production?

I want to see any of the Australian musicians whose songs we use come along to the show. It’s been so special to get to connect with some of the Kiwi artists we’ve used music from, and I’d love to get that connection across the ditch as well! So that means I want to see: the band Dragon, the band Jet, The Dreggs, Divinyls, and Kyle Lionheart at the show!

Where can patrons purchase tickets to this production?

The production runs from 27 May – 1 June at Chapel Off Chapel. To book tickets to the Romeo & Juliet/Macbeth Double Bill, please visit https://chapeloffchapel.com.au/show/the-barden-party-shakespeare-double-bill/.

Thank you so much for sharing your insights and excitement for the Romeo & Juliet/Macbeth Double Bill. Wishing you all the best for the upcoming performances – may they be filled with all the music, mischief, and magic that makes Shakespeare unforgettable! Break a leg!

Other production interviews can be viewed in our About The Production Series.

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Meet The Actor – Deborah An

Deborah An

Greetings, theatre enthusiasts! Today, we’re delighted to feature a star from the upcoming production of Eureka Day at the Reginald Theatre. Our guest has journeyed through diverse characters on stage and screen, bringing a unique blend of charm and depth to every role. As we gear up for the show’s premiere, let’s dive into the world of our talented actor and discover their passion for the craft.

About Deborah An

Why do you want to be an actor?

From the age of six, I wanted to be everything when I grew up: a ballerina, an astronaut, a teacher, police officer, mermaid, lawyer, veterinarian, painter, pilot. You get the idea. Everything. Around the age of 10, I discovered the reason I wanted to be all these things was because I saw them in movies. It was then that I realised the only profession I could pursue that would allow me to be all of these people was acting. But don’t get me wrong, I still – and on a sometimes regular basis – consider changing careers. The thing is I always come back to acting. And let’s be honest, we can’t all be Jonny Kim (Google him if you need to).

What do you enjoy most about acting?

When you step into a character, you have no choice but to see the world through their perspective. Sometimes your character holds similarities to you as the actor, but when they don’t, it’s a challenge. Even more than a challenge, it’s an opportunity to confront your own ideals, worldview and sometimes fears. No matter who the character is, I always walk away at the end of a production feeling like I’ve evolved as a person, and that’s what I love about acting.

What has been your favourite role so far in your career?

This is such a tricky question! If I had to choose one, it would be Min Jee in Night Bloomers on SBS. It was the first time I spoke Korean on camera and also the first time I died on camera! Don’t worry, it’s an anthology, that wasn’t a huge spoiler. The whole creative team, the writers, directors and most of the actors were all Korean and that was pretty special to me.

Deborah An
Deborah An

What do you think makes a performance most believable?

This is something I struggle with in my day to day life, but I think LISTENING. When you stop just hearing the words someone else is saying because you’re too busy trying to think of what you’re going to say next, and start actively listening, it makes you present and responsive. But to be honest it can actually be quite exhausting. Haha.

How do you maintain your physical and emotional health while working on demanding projects?

Prioritising the basics like eating and sleeping well, I find, goes a loooong way. Outside of pure survival though, if I know I’m going to be flat out for X period, I’ll let my friends know I won’t be seeing them for a few weeks, or in some cases months. I can be quite an introvert, so the last thing I want to do after a long week is socialise on the weekend. My friends know me well enough by now not to take it personally. Bless them. Physically, I like walking my dog to the park or beach, which helps emotionally too. I also love cleaning the house and meal prepping, so that becomes almost a meditative ritual for me. I think it comes down to knowing what you need and scheduling time for that.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Outhouse Theatre Co and Seymour Centre present Jonathan Spector’s ‘Eureka Day’ at the Reginald Theatre from 29th May to 21st June!

Where can patrons purchase tickets to this production?

To book tickets to Eureka Day, please visit https://www.seymourcentre.com/event/eureka-day/.

Thank you so much for sharing your incredible journey and insights with us! Break a leg in *Eureka Day*; we can’t wait to see you bring the Reginald Theatre to life. Cheers to an amazing run!

Other interviews can be viewed in our Meet The Performer Series.

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Meet The Actor – Johnny Nasser

Johnny Nasser

Get ready to dive into the captivating world of The Dictionary of Lost Words with our guest today, who brings the endearing character Harry Nicoll to life on stage! This talented actor has a passion for storytelling and a knack for connecting with audiences. We’ll delve into their role, the essence of the show, and what makes the upcoming performances at the Illawarra Performing Arts Centre unmissable.

About Johnny Nasser

Why do you want to be an actor?

Because I love stories and storytelling.

What do you enjoy most about acting?

I love getting to play with other actors and creatives, and connecting with audiences.

What has been your favourite role so far in your career?

I had a lovely chicken & salad roll yester……oh…role…yes. Obviously, Harry Nicoll in ‘The Dictionary of Lost Words’. He has a big heart and adores his daughter Esme.

What do you think makes a performance most believable?

I think if there are behaviours and truths that are recognisable, an audience will tend to find a performance convincing.

How do you maintain your physical and emotional health while working on demanding projects?

A bit of exercise. Rest. Good food. Laughter.

Johnny Nasser
Johnny Nasser
Johnny Nasser

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Come and see The Dictionary of Lost Words at the Illawarra Performing Arts Centre this May and June! It’s a beautiful show.

Where can patrons purchase tickets to this production?

To book tickets to The Dictionary of Lost Words, please visit https://merrigong.com.au/shows/the-dictionary-of-lost-words/.

Thank you so much for sharing your insights and laughter with us! Wishing you all the best for your show at the Illawarra Performing Arts Centre this coming May and June – break a leg!

Other interviews can be viewed here in our Meet The Performer Series.

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About The Show – Blue by Thomas Weatherall

Blue by Thomas Weatherall

Today, we’re diving into the world of Blue, directed by Ian Wilkes and brought to life by Owen Hasluck. This powerful production navigates the intricacies of growing up, mental health, and resilience. Join us as we explore the inspirations and aspirations behind this powerful performance, which is making its West Australian premiere at Black Swan State Theatre.

About Blue by Thomas Weatherall

What is this Production about?

An unforgettable monologue brought to life by proud Whadjuk Noongar actor Owen Hasluck and celebrated Noongar director Ian Wilkes.

Black Swan State Theatre Company of WA is proud to present the West Australian premiere of Blue – a tender, poetic and emotionally powerful monologue by Kamilaroi writer and Heartbreak High star Thomas Weatherall, playing at the State Theatre Centre’s Studio Underground from 23 May to 8 June 2025.

Weatherall’s “very personal fiction” explores what it means to grow up – and keep going – when life throws you off course. Told through a lyrical, introspective lens, this one-man show dives deep into grief, mental health, and the strength it takes to keep moving forward.

Making his Black Swan debut in the role of Mark is Owen Hasluck, a proud Whadjuk Noongar man and rising star of Australian theatre. A 2023 NIDA graduate, Owen also completed WAAPA’s Diploma of Acting and Aboriginal Performance Course. In 2024, he made his mainstage debut in Songbird with Yirra Yaakin, and later that year performed in Operation Boomerang, also directed by Ian Wilkes.

Ian Wilkes is a Noongar man with connection to the Wadjuk and Ballardong people. A theatre-maker, director, performer, writer and dancer, Ian is a graduate of WAAPA’s Aboriginal Theatre course and a recipient of the Perth NAIDOC Award for Artist of the Year. His directing work includes York for Black Swan and Boodjar Kaatijin and Hobo for Yirra Yaakin. He co-directed and performed in Galup and Galup VR for Perth Festival, and in 2023 directed the Festival’s spectacular opening event, Djoondal. As a performer, he has appeared in Hecate, Honey Spot, The Tempest and Black Swan’s Barracking for the Umpire which toured throughout WA in 2024.

We’re thrilled to welcome Owen to Black Swan. Blue is a play full of heart, honesty, and hope – and with Ian at the helm, we know this WA premiere will be something truly special.

Winner of the 2024 Matilda Award for Best New Australian Work, Blue has been praised around the country for its emotional resonance, poetic writing, and honesty.

Whether you’re a regular theatre lover, or discovering Black Swan for the first time, Blue promises a moving and unforgettable experience – rich with cultural connection and raw humanity.

Tim Sitwell-Mogridge
Tim Sitwell-Mogridge
Tim Sitwell-Mogridge

What sort of person is going to love this show?

If you love theatre that’s real, heartfelt and beautifully acted, this one’s for you. Blue will speak to anyone who’s ever juggled family expectations, wrestled with identity, or just wanted to be seen for who they really are. It’s powerful, honest, and surprisingly relatable — whether you’re a parent, a son, or someone who loves great storytelling.

What will the audience be thinking about in the car as they drive home after this show?

They’ll be thinking about their own families — the things they’ve said, and maybe the things they haven’t. They’ll be replaying those powerful moments of connection on stage, and probably having some honest conversations of their own. Blue leaves you feeling moved, a little raw, but ultimately hopeful. It opens up space to talk, reflect, and maybe even pick up the phone to someone you haven’t called in a while.

What’s going to surprise people about this show?

How quietly it sneaks up on you. You think it’s going one way, and then — bam — it hits you right in the heart. People might be expecting a heavy drama, but they’ll be surprised by how warm, intimate and human it is. There’s humour, tenderness, and a depth that really stays with you.

Call someone out by name: who must come see this production?

Dads. Sons. Mates who never talk about their feelings. Blue is the show you didn’t know you needed. And if you’re someone who’s ever said, “I’m fine” when you weren’t — this one’s for you. Come for the brilliant writing, stay for the gut-punch moments that’ll stick with you long after the final scene.

Where can patrons purchase tickets to this production?

This production runs from 23 May to 8 June 2025. To book tickets to Blue by Thomas Weatherall, please visit https://blackswantheatre.com.au/season-2025/blue.

Thank you to our interviewee for sharing their insights and passion. I wish you all the best with “Blue” – may it touch hearts and leave your audience profoundly moved. Break a leg!

Other production interviews can be viewed in our About The Production Series.

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