Elise Hawthorne
David Williamson’s new play The Big Time at the Ensemble Theatre in Sydney is a modern day morality tale set in the world of entertainment. The Big Time explores the topics of loyalty, ambition, honesty, love and friendship. The characters might not be very likeable, but they are definitely relatable.
Celia and Vicki were best friends at drama school, but the game of life has dealt them very different hands. Celia is a high profile soap star earning ridiculous amounts of money and the requisite harbourside views. Meanwhile, Vicki is scraping by in gritty, critically acclaimed roles in independent theatre. When Vicki proposes they collaborate on an ambitious new film project, it could be a big opportunity for both of them to prove their mettle in the industry. But are Vicki’s motives as well-intentioned as they seem, or will jealousy rear its ugly head?
Celia’s partner, scriptwriter Rohan and his old school friend, Rolly, face a test when Rolly comes to Rohan with the outline of a good story – in a cutthroat industry does the good guy or gal necessarily win?
In an industry where agents, producers, directors, writers and actors all vie for funding and exposure, friendships can fall by the wayside in the pursuit of fame or even in the hope of securing the next job.
“In the entertainment industry, there’s only one place all the hopefuls want to be. The Big Time. If they make it, they become wealthy, but perhaps even more importantly that are finally treated with respect,” said David Williamson.
David Williamson’s trademark satirical pen finds razor-sharp form in this clever, stylish and sophisticated comedy set in the ruthless world of celebrity.
THE BIG TIME, by David Williamson, directed by Mark Kilmurry
Assistant Director Felicity Nicol
Set and Costume Designer Melanie Liertz
Lighting Designer Nicholas Higgins
CAST:
CLAUDIA BARRIE plays actor Vicki Fielding
ZOE CARIDES plays agent Nelli Browne
AILEEN HUYNH plays actor Celia Constanti
MATT MINTO plays producer Nate Macklin
JEREMY WATERS plays scriptwriter Rohan Black
BEN WOOD plays Rohan’s old school friend, Rolly Pierce
All photos © Brett Broadman
www.ensemble.com.au/
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