Sarah Doyle’s critically acclaimed production will make its Australian premiere this month at Bondi’s Pavilion Theatre.
Inspired by the true events involving bullying and sexual abuse at a Sydney grammar school in 2000, Anaconda is shown from the empathic point of view of a bystander. Doyle felt this was an interesting perspective and focuses on the importance of always speaking out about abuse.
The play also explores why and how minors can be bred into a culture that protects the molester/s.
Writer/director Doyle began researching and work-shopping in early 2012 and spoke to several victims, their friends and journalists.
“What I would want for people to take away from Anaconda, is to always tell and don’t ignore the signs if you are a bystander. You don’t have to be the tough guy. Victims also tend to think ‘Why did they choose me? Is it my fault?’ and this can cause complex, long-term psychological damage.”
The strong cast includes Martin Broome (All Saints, Nightmares and Dreamscapes) Damian de Montemas (Underbelly, Packed to the Rafters) Simon Lyndon (Paper Giants, Chopper) and Leeanna Walsman (Star Wars: Episode 2 – Attack of the Clones, The Recruit). (LK)
Oct 29-Nov 23, Bondi Pavilion Theatre, Queen Elizabeth Dr, Bondi Beach, $21-35, 9356 0147, rocksurfers.org
BY LYNDSAY KENWRIGHT
