Australian theatre is currently showcasing new productions by director Margaret Thanos and playwright Jean Tong, highlighting fresh perspectives and narratives on main stages.
Margaret Thanos recently made her main-stage directorial debut and is quickly following it with another significant production. Separately, Jean Tong's play explores contemporary work culture with a unique voice.
Margaret Thanos: A Rising Voice in Australian Theatre
Margaret Thanos made her main-stage directorial debut in February with 'A Mirror' at Belvoir St Theatre. She subsequently commenced rehearsals for her second production, 'The River,' at Sydney Theatre Company.
'A Mirror' at Belvoir St Theatre
'A Mirror,' written by British playwright Sam Holcroft, premiered in February at Belvoir St Theatre and is scheduled to run until March 22. The play is set in an imaginary authoritarian regime where a Ministry of Culture oversees artistic expression. Its narrative centers on a wedding ceremony serving as a cover for an unsanctioned theatrical performance.
Director Margaret Thanos has stated that the play explores themes of censorship, art, and whistleblowing, and has connected these themes to contemporary societal issues, including implicit forms of self-censorship influenced by funding structures.
She also noted the play's message extends to the concept of truth-telling across various professional fields.
'The River' at Sydney Theatre Company
Thanos's subsequent project, 'The River,' written by Jez Butterworth, is at the Sydney Theatre Company and is scheduled to run at the Drama Theatre, Sydney Opera House, from March 30 to May 16. The production stars Miranda Otto, Ewen Leslie, and Andrea Demetriades.
Thanos characterized 'The River' as a work focused on love and human connection, distinguishing it from her previous politically themed works. The plot involves a man (Leslie) who brings his new girlfriend (Otto) to a cabin in the woods for a romantic weekend, which includes trout fishing, where 'The Other Woman' (Demetriades) also appears.
As the play's first female director, Thanos stated her approach emphasizes the female characters' perspectives, influencing the design, staging, and casting. The casting of Miranda Otto in a lead role is noted to reframe the narrative.
Thanos describes 'The River' as a universal story about "heartbreak and love."
Director's Industry Perspectives and Advocacy
Thanos is involved in social justice initiatives and has collaborated with the humanitarian organization Plan International on projects promoting young people's voices and gender equality.
She has expressed concern regarding freedom of expression and the capacity for dialogue among individuals with differing views.
Climate justice is another area of concern she has identified, citing its impact on individuals under 40 and potential implications for the future of theatre. Thanos observed that while movements such as #MeToo and Black Lives Matter have contributed to a more equitable theatre industry, challenges persist, particularly concerning opportunities for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. She reported experiencing daily misogyny within the industry, which she attributed to societal issues concerning young women in leadership roles. Thanos also acknowledged the support for diverse storytelling from companies like Belvoir St and STC.
Jean Tong's 'Do Not Pass Go' Explores Modern Work Culture
Jean Tong's play "Do Not Pass Go," directed by Katy Maudlin, is scheduled to run at the Melbourne Theatre Company's Southbank Theatre until March 28, 2026.
Production Details: 'Do Not Pass Go'
The play explores themes of work, productivity, and capitalism within a minimalist workplace setting. Its narrative features two characters, Flux and Penny, performing repetitive tasks such as cutting ribbons and stacking boxes in a bare room.
Playwright Jean Tong, an associate artist at Melbourne Theatre Company, identified capitalism as a central theme, observing societal expectations regarding work.
Tong has described the play as a "tender dark comedy," utilizing dry, absurdist humor derived from the characters' circumstances.
The interactions between Flux, a new worker, and Penny, a disciplined colleague, form the core of the play, showcasing a dynamic that leads to a developing connection. Tong stated that the play examines the bonding experience that can emerge when individuals with diverse backgrounds are brought together in a shared work environment. Director Katy Maudlin noted the characters' transformation from isolated to connected individuals during the play.
Tong has stated the play aims to prompt reflection on contemporary cultural and political pressures and has expressed optimism regarding humanity's capacity for mutual understanding.